Scientist Asier Madariet from the University of the Basque Country confirmed that the Iberian (Pyrénées) Peninsula is indeed rotating clockwise, opening new possibilities for studying the geodynamics of the region. This was reported by 'Glavcom' citing labrujulaverde.com.
The results of the research are based on a comparison of data: deformation fields obtained from satellites and information about earthquakes in recent years.
Understanding tectonic processes at the plate boundary
The comparison of these sources allowed researchers to better understand the tectonic processes at the boundary of the Eurasian and African plates. Researchers were able to determine which segments of the plate boundary are already experiencing the effects of their collision, and which continue to form under the influence of the westward displacement of the Gibraltar arc.
According to Asier Madariet, the clockwise rotation of the Iberian Peninsula has been confirmed, and the primary role in this is played by the Gibraltar arc.
Deformation and earthquakes in the region
To the east of the strait, the arc mountain absorbs deformation from the collision of plates, thereby reducing the stress transmitted to Iberia. To the west, there is a direct collision between the Iberian and African plates. This creates additional displacement of the peninsula from the southwest, directly contributing to its rotation.
Despite the presence of many areas with active deformations and earthquakes, the exact tectonic structures of these zones remain unknown for now. The fields of stress and deformation calculated by scientists help identify potential areas for further study.
Future research
In the future, researchers hope to clarify what faults and folds exist in the region, how they move, and what earthquakes they may cause, as well as assess the potential magnitude of these earthquakes.
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