Influence of the topography on the tectonic vergence

Abstract

Topographic features are described acting as determining factors of the tectonic vergence as they favor the evolution of those structures that tend to transport prominent or positive rock volumes towards the neighboring relatively lower portions of the terrain. Thus, the generated structures contribute to the recovery of the base level of the terrain when dissipating the potential energy accumulated by the positive relieves. These relationships are clearly expressed by analogical models as well as seismic sections as they enable to interpret from a mechanical viewpoint the triggering and evolution of compressional (thrusting, reverse faulting) or extensional (normal faulting) structures. Simple topographic criteria are regarded as simple and easily available tools (both in maps and in cross sections) contributing to the tectonic interpretation in complex areas or where the geologic control is considered poor. Being multiscalar in scope, they contribute to decrease the ambiguity of interpretation resulting from scarce or inadequate exposure of structures in complex scenarios where the structural evolution is required. Also, they render objective interpretation criteria to identify and/or preview subordinated antithetic features respect to those larger and earlier ones. Finally, elastic deformation control (buckling) shown by both intrabasinal depocenters and highs developed in foothills subjected to compression as they separate and become shallower whilst moving apart from the orogenic front is discussed.