The Fractal Geometry of the River Network and Neotectonics of South Sikhote-Alin

Abstract

The proposed complex Parameter of River Network Self-similarity (PRNS), which is a combination of the exponents in the equations for distribution of channel lengths, the fractal dimension of channels, and the fractal dimension of points of change of the order of the channel, matches neotectonic movements more accurately. A comprehensive analysis of the self-similarity of the southern Sikhote-Alin River network model derived from the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) based on the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission image (SRTM) has been performed. Comparison of the results of morphostructural and fractal analyses showed the good consistency of these two methods. The relative PRNS maxima coincide with areas with the largest amplitude of ascending neotectonic movements (increment of relief), while the minima coincide with the areas either with the lowest increment of relief or with greatest erosion rates. Most of the crustal earthquakes are confined to the boundaries between PRNS relative maxima and minima, that is, uplifts are surrounded by seismic areas, which is due to the block nature of neotectonic vertical movements.