A new regard on the tectonic map of the Arabian–African region inferred from the satellite gravity analysis (original) (raw)

Tectonic insights into the Arabian-African region inferred from a comprehensive examination of satellite gravity big data

Global and Planetary Change, 2018

Modern satellite gravimetry is now considered one of the most powerful and effective instrument for regional tectono-geodynamic zonation. Satellite gravity observations clearly fit the definition of 'big data' because of their volume and variety. The Arabian-NE African region discussed in this article has intricate geodynamic features including active rift zones, high seismic activity and collision processes, a rich structural pattern made up of the mosaic block system of continental and oceanic crusts of different ages, as well as several of the greatest gravity anomalies and complex magnetic anomaly mosaics. This region also has the world's main hydrocarbon resources and a vast number of other economic deposits. A comprehensive analysis of these satellite derived gravity data were used to construct a series of new maps that localize the key properties of the lithosphere of the region. A careful examination of numerous geological sources and their combined inspection with satellite derived gravity and other geophysical data resulted in this new integrated tectonic map of the Arabian-African region. An analysis of the series of gravity map transformations and certain geological indicators document the significant geodynamic features of the region.

Significant Tectono-Geophysical Features of the African-Arabian Tectonic Region: An Overview 1

Geotectonics, 2020

Satellite gravimetry is recognized now as a robust and reliable tool for regional tectonic-geodynamic zonation. The studied region contains intricate geodynamical features (high seismological indicators, active rift systems, and collision processes), the wealthiest structural arrangement (existence of mosaic blocks of oceanic and continental Earth's crust of various ages), and a number of high-amplitude gravity anomalies and complex geomagnetic pattern. This region has the most hydrocarbon reserves and diamonds, gold, platinum, and deposits. Comprehensive analysis of satellite-derived gravity data by different methodologies was used to develop maps specifying crucial properties of the region's deep structure. Combined analysis of the compiled gravity map and its transformations with obtained geological data allowed the detection of significant geotectonic features of the lithosphere of the region. For instance, the Zagros-Makran terrane was classified as a separately developing structural segment (element) of the Arabian craton. Detailed examination of numerous geological sources and their combined examination with the GPS pattern, paleomagnetic, tectonic, geoid isoline map, seismic, and other data revealed some sophisticated tectonic-geophysical features located in the middle-lower mantle below the Arabian-African region.