What distinguishes a right lateral fault?

A right lateral fault is characterized by the movement of the fault blocks in such a way that, when observed from one side of the fault, the block on the opposite side appears to have moved to the right. This is determined based on a fixed reference point on either side of the fault. When one block shifts right with respect to the other, it indicates a right lateral movement.

In geological terms, this type of fault is often associated with shear stress, where tectonic forces cause the rocks to slide laterally past one another. Right lateral faults can play a significant role in shaping the landscape and are essential for understanding tectonic activity and potential earthquake zones.

The other options do not accurately describe the characteristics of a right lateral fault. For instance, if movement is perceived to the left, that would indicate a left lateral fault instead. If no movement occurs, it doesn't classify as a fault at all, and a right lateral fault can be either a strike-slip fault or a reverse fault but is not defined as only being a reverse fault. Thus, the distinguishing feature is the rightward perception of movement across the fault line.