Morphotectonic regions of Costa Rica: A review and updated classification

 

Guardado en:
Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Arroyo Solórzano, Mario Andrés, Quesada Román, Adolfo
Formato: capítulo de libro
Fecha de Publicación:2024
Descripción:The tectonic and geomorphological dynamics of Costa Rica are primarily driven by the interaction of tectonic plates and erosional and weathering processes that take place in this tropical environment. We focus our study on the history and evolution of the morphotectonic classifications for Costa Rica using geological, morphological, and seismotectonic data. Based on an in-depth review and analysis of previous morphotectonic subdivisions for Costa Rica, a synthesis is proposed in this study. Moreover, we carefully revised the accuracy of boundaries between different morphotectonic units through a detailed evaluation of the adjustment. For this purpose, comparison of geological maps, topography, and in some cases seismic zonation was performed. We first propose a subdivision of major tectonic elements: (1) tectonic plates, (2) the most relevant tectonic-structural elements, and (3) the morphotectonic regions (Arc-Trench sector, Inner-Arc, and Back-Arc). Based on this, we established ten specific morphotectonic units, grouping and encompassing Costa Rica’s main reliefs and geomorphological features. These morphotectonic regions and units were formed primarily due to the interaction between the Cocos and Caribbean plates, and the Panama Microplate, in a subduction tectonic regime. Furthermore, is remarkable that the relief and morphotectonic composition of Costa Rica was originated due to historical interaction and evolution of several geotectonic processes, as well as the formation and modification of major tectonic structures or elements generated by the driving force of plate tectonics.
País:Kérwá
Institución:Universidad de Costa Rica
Repositorio:Kérwá
Lenguaje:Inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:kerwa.ucr.ac.cr:10669/103274
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/10669/103274
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-64940-0_2
Palabra clave:morphotectonics
tectonic geomorphology
plate tectonics
landscape
geological history
Costa Rica
geomorphological dynamics