Structure and Evolution of Nappe-Fold Edifices of the Alpine-Himalayan Belt: A Comparison

Abstract

The Alpine-Himalayan Mesozoic-Cenozoic belt extends for ∼10,000 km and comprises ∼20 separate nappe-fold mountain edifices. These edifices in their internal structure, lithologic composition, and evolution exhibit both important similarities and differences, the analysis of which represents the purpose of this paper. Similarities include the nature of the lithologic-structural elements constituting these edifices, mutual disposition, and the sequence of development stages. Differences concern the age of the pre-Alpine basement, the age and degree of extension creating the deep-water basins existing at earlier stages of evolution of the orogenic edifices, the age and degree of deformation that led to the formation of the nappe-fold structure, and the direction of vergence. The nature of the formation of cratonic forelands on both sides of the mobile belt, the configuration of its borders, and the presence of numerous microcontinents inside the belt also have played substantial roles in determination of the...