Neotectonics of Kashaf Rud River, NE Iran by Modified Index of Active Tectonics (MIAT)

Abstract

Kashaf rud river is located in border zone of East Alborz and Kopet Dagh physiographic provinces in the north east Iran. Geomorphic indices are useful tools to show the neotectonic regimes. These indices have got the advantage of being calculated from Arc GIS and remote sensing packages over large area as a useful tool to identify geomorphic anomalies possibly related to active tectonics. In this research, seven geomorphic indices (stream-gradient index, valley floor width-valley height ratio, mountain-front sinuosity, drainage basin asymmetry, hypsometric integral, drainage basin shape and transverse topographic symmetry factor) were calculated along the Kashaf rud river. Then, based on a new index or modified index of active tectonics (Miat) values that calculated by average of seven geomorphic indices, relative tectonic activities levels were revealed. The low class of Miat is mainly in the sub-basins of No. 6, 10, 13, 14, 21, 22, 23, 24 & 28 while the rest of the study area has moderate tectonic activities in the other sub-basins. Our results show that the moderate value has located along faulted area, which shows 2 class of relative tectonic activity. These faults have been formed above an old suture zone between Cimmerian and Eurasian plates.