The role of neotectonic in the relief evolution of Gorny Altai

Abstract

A small impact of selective denudation on the relief evolution of Gorny Altai has been established on the basis of geomorphological structure analysis and its relation to geological composition. New model for relief development has been put forward. According to this model vertical movements which have caused the formation of Altai Mts. have taken place due to regional contraction of this area. At first a system of swells separated by troughs appeared during the contraction, and then it was broken by faults, of which shears and thrusts were predominant.