1. adj. [Geophysics, Geology, Shale Gas]

Having directionally dependent properties. For a crystal of a mineral, variation in physical properties observed in different directions is anisotropy. In rocks, variation in seismic velocity measured parallel or perpendicular to bedding surfaces is a form of anisotropy.

Often found where platy minerals such as micas and clays align parallel to depositional bedding as sediments are compacted, anisotropy is common in shales.

Antonyms: isotropic

See related terms: aeolotropy,  anisotropic formation,  anisotropy,  birefringence,  extensive dilatancy anisotropy,  heterogeneous formation,  raypath,  seismic velocity,  velocity