Evaluating the effects of fault tectonics on the geomorphology of Zanjanrud basin using remote-sensing and geomorphometry techniques

The geomorphology of the Zanjanroud basin is affected by the active tectonic zones resulting from the interaction of the Soltanieh, Zanjan, Tarem, and Manjil faults and the faults that have been investigated more closely in this research. The interaction of these faults has made this basin in the form of a small high plateau, heterogeneous compared to the surrounding areas and a suitable place for the establishment of human settlements. In this research, remote sensing and geomorphometric techniques have been used to identify the lineaments and tectonic evidence in order to discover the tectonic effect on the geomorphology of the basin. The contour lines have been converted into a map after checking with the help of telemetry, geomorphometry and field techniques. Then, by analyzing and interpreting the evidence, the relationship between the dynamic pattern of the faults and its effects on the morphology of different landforms is presented with an emphasis on the interactive reconstruction of drainage networks and faults. The results show that the active tectonics of the faults are concentrated towards the centre of the basin and Zanjanroud area. On the other hand, the compliance of the morphology and topographical trends of the basin, as well as the Zanjan River canal and many drainages with the extraction lines with the help of geomorphometric techniques, clearly shows the effectiveness of geomorphometry to evaluate and prove the impact of terraforming on the geomorphology of the basins. Although no destructive earthquake has been reported in the region, But the presence of morphological evidence and the interruption of Quaternary to Holocene deposits indicate the active deformation of the region. Therefore, it seems that the fault systems of the basin have the potential to create earthquakes with a much higher magnitude than what has happened so far, which indicates the necessity of planning based on a detailed study of the faults in the region.