Lithospheric structure and geodynamics at the northern margin of Tibetan plateau

Abstract

A recent integrated geophysical survey has been completed along a transect from Baicheng, Xinjiang to Da Qaidam, Qinghai, China. In this study, wide-angle seismic reflection/refraction exploration with 10 shot points has been carried out to acquire the velocity structure of the crust and uppermost mantle. The earthquake focal mechanism solutions and terrestrial heat flow along the transect have also been obtained and analyzed. Based on the velocity structure of the crust and uppermost mantle along the transect, and combined with the focal mechanism solutions and terrestrial heat flow we develop a geodynamic model for the northern margin of the Tibetan plateau. This model reveals the detailed structure of the crust and uppermost mantle, determines the relationship of basin and range coupling, explores the deep dynamic setting for superposed basins, and establishes the northern boundary condition for Tibetan plateau research.