What type of fault occurs when the hanging wall moves up and over the foot wall?

A fault where the hanging wall moves up and over the foot wall is classified as a reverse fault. This type of fault occurs due to compressional forces within the Earth's crust, which push the rock masses together. In a reverse fault, the angle of inclination is typically steep, allowing the hanging wall to be thrust upward relative to the foot wall.

While a thrust fault is also characterized by the hanging wall moving over the foot wall, the distinction lies in the angle of the fault plane. Thrust faults have a lower angle compared to reverse faults, often less than 30 degrees. Therefore, if a fault is specifically described as having a steep incline and could be distinguished from a thrust fault, it would be referred to as a reverse fault.

Recognizing the difference in these fault types is crucial for understanding tectonic processes and the geologic structures they create.