The structural evolution of pull?apart basins in response to changes in plate motion

Pull-apart basins are structural features linked to the interactions between strike-slip and extensional tectonics. Their morphology evolution determined by factors such as extension rate, basin length/width ratio, changes in direction. In this work, we investigate effect of a change plate motion direction on pull-apart basin's structure, using analogue modelling experiments with two-layer ductile-brittle configuration simulate continental crust rheology. We initially impose orthogonal an interconnected rift system drive development. Subsequently, rotate relative vector, imposing transtensional deformation continuing new vector end experiment. To compare natural examples, analyse model seismic interpretation software, generating 3D fault structure sedimentary thickness interpretations. Results show that produces map-view sigmoidal oblique slip faults become normal-slip when adjusts vector. Furthermore, sediment distribution is strongly influenced rotation, changing locus deposition inside at each stage. Finally, our observations reflection images, package thicknesses interpretations from Northern Gulf California find good agreement nature. Similar arrays occur Bohai Basin northern China, which suggests rotational component its evolution. More broadly, similar structures could indicate role for rotation any basin.