| Abstract: | The paper presents the results of modelling deformations in stratified formations involved in gliding down a tilted base. The modelling is performed to simulate an “orogenic wave”. Gravity folding is compared to folding caused by horizontal compression from a rigid block. Various morphologic types of structure arise with gravitational gliding depending on the thickness and physical properties of the layers involved. These are kink, sine, chevron and fan-like folds, uplift-thrusted structures and selective folding. In similar strata similar deformations originate both in gravity gliding and by compression from a rigid block. The results of the experiments suggest that gravity gliding tectonics may be responsible fo a much wider variety of structure than has been previously envisaged. |
