Slope Gradient


    Dinosaurs leave characteristic tracks when walking on an inclined sedimentary surface, such as a beach, river delta, or sand dune.  Such environments have an inclination up to 30 degrees.  When a dinosaur walk at an angle like this, the track left behind is asymmetrical, characterized by a bulge of displaced sediment on the downslope side.  If a dinosaur was moving upslope, the bulge would be at the posterior of the track.  If a dinosaur was moving downslope, the bulge would be at the anterior of the track.  Using the tracks, the paleo-angle of the sedimentary bed can be estimated.

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