Strain data recorded in Xinjiang and their bearing on Tianshan’s uplift/shortening and Tarim basin’s rotation

Abstract

Based on the continuous strain data recorded in Xinjiang since 1985, we discuss the mechanisms of Tianshan’s uplift and Tarim basin’s clockwise rotation. The results indicate; 1) The principal – compression directions in Tianshan are nearly NS, and their intersection angles with regional structures and mountains are nearly perpendicular, which is in accordance with Tianshan’s uplift and crustal shortening. 2) The principal compressions around Tarim basin tend to facilitate the regional faults’ left-lateral strike-slip movements and the basin’s clockwise rotation. These phenomena of uplift/shortening and rotation are fundamentally the results of India plate’s northward push on Euro-Asia plate, and the associated Pamir arc’s rapid northward movement and regional blocks’ interaction.

Keywords

• continuous borehole strain measurement
• principal-compression direction
• Tianshan uplift
• NS crustal shortening
• Tarim basin’s clockwise rotation