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

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Abstract

Satellite gravimetry is recognized now as powerful and reliable tool for regional tectono-geodynamic zonation. The studied region contains intricate geodynamical features (high seismological indicators, active rift systems and collision processes), richest structural arrangement (existence of mosaic blocks of oceanic and continental Earth’s crust of various age), and a number of high-amplitude gravity anomalies and complex geomagnetic pattern. The most hydrocarbon reserves and diamonds, gold, platinum and deposits occur in this region. Comprehensive analysis of satellite derived gravity data by different methodologies were used to develop a sequence of maps specifying crucial properties of the region deep structure. Combined analysis of the compiled gravity map and its transformations with obtained geological data allowed to detecting significant geotectonic features of lithosphere of the region. For instance, 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 tectono-geophysical feature apparently located in middle-lower mantle below the Arabian-African region.

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank Prof. E.A. Rogozhin (Institute of the Physics of the Earth RAS, Moscow, Russia) and anonymous reviewer whose valuable comment were helpful in improving the paper.

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  1. Tel Aviv University, Department of Geosciences, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel

    L. V. Eppelbaum

  2. Steinhardt Museum of Natural History and National Research Center ‒ Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel

    Y. I. Katz

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  1. L. V. Eppelbaum
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Correspondence to L. V. Eppelbaum.

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Reviewer: E.A. Rogozhin

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Eppelbaum, L.V., Katz, Y.I. Significant Tectono-Geophysical Features of the African-Arabian Tectonic Region: An Overview. Geotecton. 54, 266–283 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1134/S0016852120020041

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