Richtungslage

Richtungslage is a term used in geology to describe the spatial orientation of a line or planar geological feature, such as beds, foliation, joints, or faults. It encompasses how the feature is oriented in three-dimensional space and is essential for mapping and structural interpretation.

In practical use, the orientation of a planar feature is described by two components. For planes, these are strike (Richtung) and dip (Lage). The strike is the direction of the line formed by the intersection of the plane with a horizontal surface, usually given as a azimuth relative to geographic north. The dip is the angle between the plane and a horizontal surface, measured in the direction of the steepest slope, with a specified dip direction. Together, strike and dip fully define the plane’s orientation. For line features, trend (Richtung) and plunge (Lage) describe the direction of the line and its downward angle.

Field measurements typically involve a compass and inclinometer to determine these angles, which are then recorded in standard formats (for example, strike/dip values like 120/30). Richtingslage is routinely used in geological mapping, structural geology, and geotechnical assessments to understand deformation, planar fabric, and the spatial relations of rock units.

Relation to related concepts: Richtungsverlauf and Lagerung are related notions in German-language geology that describe direction or positioning of structures. The concept is closely tied to strike and dip measurements, and is often discussed in the context of bedding planes, foliations, cleavage, faults, and fracture networks.

See also: strike, dip, strike and dip, bedding, foliation, joints, faults, structural geology.