What distinguishes a thrust fault from a standard reverse fault?

A thrust fault is characterized by a low-angle dip, typically less than 30 degrees. This is a key distinguishing feature that differentiates it from a standard reverse fault, which often has a steeper dip. In a thrust fault, the hanging wall moves up over the footwall, but because of the gentle incline, it often results in the horizontal movement of rock layers over long distances. This contrasts with the more vertical nature of reverse faults. The low-angle characteristic of thrust faults allows for distinct geological formations and often plays a key role in mountain-building processes.

The other choices do not correctly describe the primary attributes that distinguish thrust faults, reinforcing why the low-angle dip is the defining feature.