What is a key trait of sedimentary strata according to the principle of lateral continuity?

A key trait of sedimentary strata, in relation to the principle of lateral continuity, is that they can be found spanning across vast geographical areas. This principle, first proposed by Nicolas Steno in the 17th century, states that layers of sediments originally extend laterally in all directions until they thin out or encounter a physical barrier. This characteristic emphasizes that sedimentary rocks should not be expected to be confined to small or isolated areas.

The lateral continuity of strata allows geologists to infer the geological history of an area by correlating layers of rock from one location to another, even if those layers are separated by significant distances. This helps in understanding sediment deposition processes and past environments over large regions, which can be crucial for resources exploration, environmental studies, and reconstructing geological events.

Other options reference specific conditions or limitations that are not supported by the general understanding of sedimentary processes. Sedimentary rocks can indeed form in a variety of environments, not just high altitudes, riverbeds, or lakes. Additionally, the orientation of strata varies and they are not strictly vertically oriented, which contradicts the broader applicability of the lateral continuity principle.