What is Bed (geology)?
[[Image:Bedding.jpg|thumb|Sedimentary bedding (Turkey)]] In [[geology]] a '''bed''' is the smallest division of [[Rock (geology)|rock]] or deposit. It is a [[Formation (geology)|geologic formation]] or [[stratigraphy|stratigraphic]] rock series marked by well-defined divisional planes ('''bedding planes''') separating it from layers above and below. A bed is the smallest [[stratigraphy|lithostratigraphic]] unit. It ranges in thickness from a [[centimetre]] to several [[metres]]. It can be distinguished from beds above and below it by rock or [[mineral]] type and [[particle size]]. The term is usually applied to [[sedimentary]] [[Stratum|strata]], but may also be used for [[volcanic]] flows or [[Volcanic ash|ash]] layers. In a [[quarry]], '''bedding''' is a term used for a structure occurring in [[granite]] and similar rocks which allows them to split in well-defined planes horizontally or parallel to the land surface. == Engineering == In [[geotechnical engineering]] a bedding plane often forms a [[discontinuous|discontinuity]] that may have a large influence on the mechanical behaviour (strength, deformation) of soil and rock masses. This is important in, for example, [[tunnel]], [[Foundation (engineering)|foundation]], or [[slope]] construction. == Related pages == * [[Strata]] {{DEFAULTSORT:Bed (geology)}} [[Category:Geology]] [[Category:Stratigraphy]]