Numerical modeling of stresses and deformation in the Zagros–Iranian Plateau region

Abstract. The Zagros orogenic system resulted due to collision of the Arabian plate with Eurasian plate. region is characterized by ocean–continent subduction and continent–continent collision, convergence velocity shows variations from east west. Therefore, this complex tectonic stress a wide range diffuse or localized deformation between both plates. in situ GPS data are very limited sparsely distributed region; therefore, we performed numerical simulation stresses causing Zagros–Iran region. deviatoric resulting lithospheric density thickness those shear tractions at base lithosphere mantle convection were computed using thin-sheet approximation. Stresses associated sources can explain various surface observations strain rates, SHmax, velocities, thus suggesting good coupling most parts Iran. As magnitude density-driven higher than topography Zagros–Iranian Plateau region, appears be dominant driver area. However, Iran caused primarily stresses. found vary along belt north–northeast southeast northwest northwestern Zagros, similarly observed vectors. output study used seismic hazards estimations.