Terrace (geology)

For other uses, see Terrace (disambiguation).
Sediments underlying fluvial terrace exposed in cutbanks along the Manú River, Peru

In geology, a terrace is a step-like landform. A terrace consists of a flat or gently sloping geomorphic surface, called a tread, that is typically bounded on one side by a steeper ascending slope, which is called a "riser" or "scarp". The tread and the steeper descending slope (riser or scarp) together constitute the terrace. Terraces can also consist of a tread bounded on all sides by a descending riser or scarp. A narrow terrace is often called a bench.[1][2]

The sediments underlying the tread and riser of a terrace are also commonly, but incorrectly, called terraces, leading to confusion.

Terraces are formed in various ways.

  1. ^ Howard, A.D., R.W. Fairbridge, J.H. Quinn, 1968, "Terraces, Fluvial—Introduction", in R.W. Fairbridge, ed., The Encyclopedia of Geomorphology: Encyclopedia of Earth Science Series, vol. 3. Reinhold Book Corporation. New York, New York.
  2. ^ Jackson, J.A., 1997, Glossary of Geology. American Geological Institute. Alexandria, Virginia.