Geomorphology of Kand Structure North of Iraq Using Remote Sensing Data

Abstract

Remotly sensed data were used in the study of the morphotectonic of the Kand Structure in north of Iraq .The present study showed that the landforms can be interpreted and analyzed depending on the aerial photographs (scale 1/38,000). The landforms were analyzed and classified in the study area according to their gensis through the interpretation of the aerial photographs. Ten geomorphological units were recognized which were represented on a map prepared for this purpose. This map is regarded as a database in the improvement of the modern structural concepts for Kand Fold through its enhancement of the presence of four domes and the conformation of a fifth dome present in the far east part of the structure which are not dealt with in previous studies, so this study proposed a name for this dome (Badrian) relative to the Badrian village adjacent to it. Results of morphotectonic analysis concluded that the geomorphological modifications of the surface valley system crossing Kand Fold at many sites have developed in conjugation with the effective growth of this structure, where the clear proofs which are due to the tectonic effects in these valleys represented by the longitudinal sections and the abnormal senuousity. In addition to the morphology of the valleys and the river terraces affected by the directions and sites of tectonic uplifting along the valleys crossing Kand structure all of which proved that these valleys are matching the hypothesis of Antecedent valleys and that Kand Structure is still continuing in the phase of growth.