An anticline is a type of geological fold that forms when rock layers are compressed and arch upward. This structure typically has older rock layers at its core, with younger layers on the outside. Anticlines are important in geology because they can trap oil and natural gas, making them significant for energy exploration. These formations are often found in areas where tectonic plates collide, leading to the bending and folding of the Earth's crust. Understanding anticlines helps geologists predict the location of resources and assess geological stability in regions prone to earthquakes, such as those near fault lines.