Morphostructural subdivision and some problems of geodynamics of the Great Caucasus

Abstract

Large features of the Great Caucasus rnorphostructure have been compared with data available on plates and microplates movements within the Caucasus region. Special technique of morphostructural subdivision was used to outline areal units of different rank (blocks) and linear zones delineating them (morphostructural lineaments). Morphostructural homogeneity and isolation of the blocks are controlled by geodynamic conditions. Asymmetric mountain slopes are ascertained to be formed under conditions of unidirectional compressive forces, various topographic types and elements being combined in overthrust and underthrust structures. Bilateral compression accounts for the symmetrical mountain slopes of the Great Caucasus.