Tectonics from topography: Procedures, promise, and pitfalls

摘要: Empirical observations from fl uvial systems across the globe reveal a consistent power-law scaling between channel slope and contributing drainage area. Theoretical arguments for both detachmentand transport-limited erosion regimes suggest that rock uplift rate should exert fi rst-order control on this scaling. Here we describe in detail method exploiting relationship, which topographic indices of longitudinal profi le shape character are derived digital data. The stream data can then be used to delineate breaks may associated with tectonic boundaries. description is followed by three case studies varied settings. illustrate power analysis delineating spatial patterns of, some cases, temporal changes in, rate. Owing an incomplete understanding river response uplift, remains primarily qualitative tool neotectonic investigations; conclude discussion research needs must met before extract quantitative information about tectonics directly topography.