Relative Tectonics Activity Assessment of Diyala River Area Using Lithological Strength Ratio and Morphometric Indices

Abstract

The study presents a new procedure for assessment relative tectonic activity based on morphometric indices and lithological strength useful in evaluating morphology and topography. The results produced from the analysis are cumulative and expressed as an index of lithological strength and relative tectonic activity (LRTI) , which is divided into five classes ranges from relatively very low to very high tectonic activity. The study area along the Zagros suture zone in eastern Iraq is an ideal location to test the concept of an index to predict relative tectonic activity on a basis of area rather than a single valley or mountain front. The study area has variable rates of tectonic activity resulting from the collision of Arabian and Eurasian plates that has produced linear northwestern–southeastern anticlinal forms, as well as extension with variable vertical rates of main collision zone (Zagros Suture Zone) to about -0.9 mm/y. In this study, the hypothesis test that known areas of relatively high rates of tectonic activity are associated with indicators values of lithological strength and relative tectonic activity (LRTI).