Morphogenetics of Rembang anticlinorium based on tectonic geomorphology characteristics in Watuputih, Central Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Rembang Anticlinorium is a series en-echelon folds with east – west orientation that formed from late Neogene tectonism. The folds in Watuputih named Ngiono, Pakel, Gaplokan, Bulu and Brama are composed of Neogene sedimentary rocks. Morphogenetics of Rembang Anticlinorium can be identified by using morphometric indices such as Mountain front sinuosity (Smf), Ratio of valley height and valley width (Vf) and Drainage density (Dd) from 79 sub-basins. The ranges of these indices are Smf (1.03-3.48), Vf (0.62-8.0) and Dd (1.41-4.00). Relative Tectonic Activity Index (IAT) ranges from 2 to 4, from a low to a high tectonic activity. Neogene sedimentary rocks in this area show a moderate degree of weathering mainly in the limestone bearing formations. Based on the analysis of morphometric indices and field observations, tectonics and weather play the major roles in shaping the landform of Rembang Anticlinorium with erosional forces having the greater impact.

Keywords

• tectonic geomorphology
• morphometric indices
• relative tectonic activity
• rembang anticlinorium
• watuputih