The tectonic position of the lower Mosel block in relation to the Tertiary and old Pleistocene sediments.

Abstract

The various older Tertiary deposits in the area have undergone severe tectonic disturbances. The most extreme downwarping values are to be found within the Vallendar gravels, whereas the calcareous sandstones of the Munstermaifeld area show relatively little disturbance. The siliceous oolite gravels are to be found at a constant elevation, excepting a few local gravel deposits, suggesting tectonic stability in the Lower Mosel Valley during the post-Pliocene period. The tectonic separation of the Middle Mosel block from the Lower Mosel block occurred within a short distance in the Trais-Karden-Cochem valley section and took the form of a stair-like uplift which resulted in post-Pliocene dislocation values of 50-65 m and Quaternary values of approx 40 m. The main tectonic activity was confined to the oldest Pleistocene.-J.M.H.