Tiao-kuai

Tiao-kuai (條塊) refers to a geological term describing a distinct block of rock or crustal material that has moved or been displaced relative to surrounding areas. The term is often used in the context of faulting, tectonics, and regional geology. "Tiao" (條) generally translates to "strip" or "block," and "kuai" (塊) translates to "lump," "piece," or "block," together indicating a coherent, often elongated, piece of land that behaves somewhat independently.

The size of a tiao-kuai can vary significantly, ranging from relatively small blocks to substantial portions of a tectonic plate. Their movement can be caused by a variety of forces, including plate tectonics, seismic activity, and gravitational sliding. The study of tiao-kuai movement and deformation is crucial for understanding regional geological history, assessing seismic hazards, and managing natural resources. Analyzing the boundaries of tiao-kuai, especially faults, helps geologists to reconstruct past tectonic events and predict future geological activity. The features and arrangement of these blocks impact the landscape, drainage patterns, and the distribution of mineral deposits.