Mathematical treatments of strain commonly assume homogeneous rather than heterogeneous distortions. However, any heterogeneously strained rock body can be subdivided into small areas that exhibit the characteristics of homogeneous strain.
Homogeneous Strain
Homogeneous strain affects non-rigid rock bodies in a regular, uniform manner.
Heterogeneous Strain
Heterogeneous strain affects non-rigid bodies in an irregular, non-uniform manner and is sometimes referred to as non-homogeneous strain.