Late Quaternary active faulting on the inherited Baoertu basement fault within the eastern Tian Shan orogenic belt: Implications for regional tectonic deformation and slip partitioning, NW China

Abstract The deformation pattern and slip partitioning related to oblique underthrusting of the Tarim Basin in eastern Tian Shan orogenic belt are not well understood because interior images lacking. Baoertu fault is an E-W–striking, ~350-km-long reactivated basement structure within Shan. In this study, we quantify its late Quaternary activity based on interpretations detailed high-resolution remote sensing field investigations. Three observation sites along ~80-km-long segment indicate that characterized by sinistral thrust faulting. Based surveying displaced geomorphic surfaces with unmanned drone dating sediments using radiocarbon optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) methods, estimate a left-lateral, strike-slip rate 1.87 ± 0.29 mm/yr N–S shortening 0.26 0.04 for fault. lithospheric acts as decoupling zone accommodates left-lateral shearing caused Basin. belt, convergence partitioned into faulting across entire range high-dip orogen. This active center both sides can be viewed giant, crustal-scale positive flower structures.