The Analysis of Transverse Topographic Symmetry Factor (T Index) in the Chekene-Mazavand, North East Iran

Abstract

T index has been calculated in the Chekene-Mazavand region in the NE Iran. This index shows lateral tilting may be related to active tectonics. There are many streams and transverse topographic symmetry factor has been calculated for all streams of Kashafroud river. Firstly, based on digital elevation model, the study area was divided into 28 sub-basins. Then transverse topographic symmetry factor was calculated for each one. The values are between 0.14 and 0.57 and so, there are low, moderate and high levels of relative tectonic activities. The areas with low relative tectonic activities have found in sub-basins no. 14, 15 and 24, moderate relative tectonic activities have found in sub-basins no. 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 13, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27 and 28 and high relative tectonic activities have found in sub-basins no. 1, 3, 4, 8, 11, 12, 17, 20 and 26. The results show that the plains have got low to moderate level of tectonic activity and faulted areas have got high tectonic activity. This matter is compatible with its tectonic setting on the Kopet Dagh belt in north east Iran.