1. n. [Geology]
The fundamental unit of lithostratigraphy. A body of rock that is sufficiently distinctive and continuous that it can be mapped. In stratigraphy, a formation is a body of strata of predominantly one type or combination of types; multiple formations form groups, and subdivisions of formations are members.
See: differential compaction, formation pressure, geologic map, geostatic pressure, isochore, isopach, lithostatic pressure, permeability, relative age, structure map, tight, trap, underpressure
3. n. [Formation Evaluation]
A general term for the rock around the borehole. In the context of formation evaluation, the term refers to the volume of rock seen by a measurement made in the borehole, as in a log or a well test. These measurements indicate the physical properties of this volume. Extrapolation of the properties beyond the measurement volume requires a geological model.
