Physical Modeling Of Kinematics And Internal Deformation Within Slumping Structures

Gravitational collapse structures,often termed slumping structures,are observed in many settings around the world and range,especially in regions influenced by extensional tectonics.Most previous studies on the slumping structures have focused on the run-out distance,topography of deposition area,and to some extent,the triggering mechanisms.The thesis focused on the the spacial and temporal distribution of internal deformation within slumping structures using physical modeling.Besides,it also investigated the effect of friction properties of slumping beds,dip of the undeformed slope,presence and geometry of weak horizons on kinematics and internal deformation within the slumped mass.Model results show that the collapse of granular slopes results in formation of different-generation normal faults in the rear of the slumped mass,and shortening structures in the front of the slumped mass.Friction properties,dip of the slope,and presence and geometry of weak horizons affect the formation of internal structures.The overall geometry the overall geometry and sequences of internal structures show a similar pattern.Initial collapse resulted in the first generation normal faults with high angles.Further collapse resulted in the second and third generation normal faults with low angles.However,dips and displacements along different-generation normal faults varied with these influence factors.The runout-distance,topography,and amount of the failure mass were also varied significantly in different experimental models.