High-resolution geodetic velocities reveal role of weak faults in deformation of Tibetan Plateau
University of Leeds · Centre for the Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Tectonics · +10 more institutions
Abstract
Understanding the key mechanisms that control the tectonic deformation of the continents remains a fundamental challenge in geodynamics. We present a high-resolution geodetic velocity field of the Tibetan Plateau, which shows that a few major strike-slip fault systems separate regions of more uniformly distributed deformation. We suggest that focused strain on major fault systems is enabled by relatively low-viscosity ductile shear zones extending through the lithosphere beneath the seismically active fault planes. Simple model calculations show that high slip rates on the Kunlun Fault enable east-west extension to be distributed broadly across the relatively weak southern and central Tibetan Plateau.…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 56.55
- Percentile
- 99%
- References
- 70
Authors
14- TJT. J. WrightCorresponding
University of Leeds, Centre for the Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Tectonics
- GAG. A. Houseman
University of Leeds, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Centre for the Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Tectonics
- JFJ. Fang
University of Leeds, Centre for the Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Tectonics
- YMYasser Maghsoudi
University of Exeter
- AJA. J. Hooper
University of Leeds, Centre for the Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Tectonics
Topics & keywords
- Geodetic datum
- Lithosphere
- Graben
- Shear zone
- Tectonics
- Shear (geology)
- Rift
- Plateau (mathematics)