Which branch of geology focuses on stress, strain, and deformation of rock structures?

Structural geology is the branch of geology that specifically studies the stress, strain, and deformation of rock structures. This field examines how the Earth’s crust is deformed by tectonic forces, leading to various geological structures such as folds, faults, and fractures. Understanding these deformations is crucial for interpreting the geological history of an area and can inform us about past tectonic events.

In structural geology, the analysis of rock layers (strata) and their configuration provides insights into the processes that shaped the landscape over time. The discipline employs techniques such as mapping, modeling, and analysis of stress-strain relationships to gain a complete picture of Earth's structural features and the conditions under which they formed. This focus on deformation distinguishes structural geology from other branches.

Petrology primarily concerns the study of rocks and the conditions of their formation, sedimentology focuses on sedimentary processes and the history of sedimentary rocks, while paleontology deals with the study of ancient life through fossils. None of these fields concentrate on the mechanics of rock deformation or stress-strain relationships in the way that structural geology does.