How does the transform fault differ from a simple strike -slip fault?

1 answer

A transform fault is a type of strike-slip fault where the motion is primarily horizontal and parallel to the fault plane. Transform faults are typically found at the boundaries between tectonic plates, where they accommodate horizontal movement between the plates.

A simple strike-slip fault is a type of fault where the rocks on either side of the fault plane move horizontally past each other with little to no vertical movement. This type of fault is also characterized by its horizontal motion, but it may not necessarily be located at a plate boundary like a transform fault.

In summary, while both transform faults and simple strike-slip faults involve horizontal motion along a fault plane, transform faults specifically occur at plate boundaries and are associated with tectonic plate movement, whereas simple strike-slip faults may occur in a variety of geological settings.