Analysis of the Impact of Tectonic Activities on Drainage Network Anomalies in the Shaharchay Watershed, Urmia Using Geomorphic Indices

Authors

1 Department of Geography Education, Farhangian University,Tehran,Iran.

2 Master of Science, Technical and Soil Mechanics Laboratory, Maku, Iran.

3 Associate Professor, Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.

Abstract

This research examines the impact of tectonic activities on the drainage network anomalies in the Shaharchay watershed in northwestern Iran (Urmia). The study area exhibits distinct drainage patterns due to tectonic activities and geological changes. The objective of this study is to identify and analyze the relationship between tectonic activities and drainage network changes using morphometric analysis tools. For this purpose, tools such as a 10-meter resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM), geological and topographical maps, and various geomorphic indices were used.
The analytical method includes calculating indices such as Hierarchical Anomaly (Δa) and Hierarchical Anomaly Density (ga) to assess tectonic activities and analyze their correlation with drainage network changes. Additionally, indices such as Bifurcation Ratio (Rb), Direct Bifurcation Ratio (Rbd), Basin Asymmetry Factor (PAF), Basin Shape Ratio (BS), and Mean Length of First-Order Streams (LN1) were used to identify structural features and tectonic trends.
The results indicate that the values of Hierarchical Anomaly indices (1.34) and Hierarchical Anomaly Density (1.33) suggest the presence of structural anomalies and significant tectonic activities in the area. The analysis of the Bifurcation Ratio index (R = 1.41) indicates high tectonic activity and the lack of drainage network development in certain areas. Furthermore, the Basin Asymmetry Factor (PAF = 54.39) confirms the inclination of streams toward the left bank and the likelihood of tectonic activities in this part. The Basin Shape Ratio (BS = 5.62) and the Mean Length of First-Order Streams (LN1 = 0.517 km) also indicate an undeveloped drainage network affected by active tectonics.
The findings of this research demonstrate that tectonic activities have a significant impact on the region's drainage patterns. These findings can be useful in assessing geological hazards such as slope processes and in development planning and crisis management in this watershed.

Keywords

Files

History

  • Receive Date: 13 December 2024
  • Revise Date: 04 March 2025
  • Accept Date: 08 March 2025

Share

How to cite

Statistics