Tectonic Indications for Thickness Change of Geological Formations in South Eastern Part Area of Safen Anticline, North Eastern Iraq

Abstract

The study area is located in the southeastern part of Safen Anticline, northeastern Iraq. The aim of the study is to discuss the listric fault role in the change of the deposition basin topography of Bekhme and Shiranish formations and finally change of their thicknesses. The field data picked up in September of 2020 include bed attitudes and formation boundaries, with their positions. After the drawing of three cross sections and calculating the thickness of Bekhme and Shiranish formations in the studied area, the results showed that the thickness of the Bekhme Formation which represents the reef environment, increases in thickness within the northeastern limb of the fold, While the thickness of the Shiranish Formation which represents the deep environment, increases within the southwestern limb of the fold. These changes were concluded as result occurred due to the reverse movement of the Listeric fault responsible for the growth of the fold synchronously with Bekhme and Shiranish formation deposition.