Deep structure of the western part of the Central Caucasus from geophysical data

New geophysical data confirms the sinking of the southern microplate into the mantle along the Adygei profile in the western Central Caucasus, revealing deep structural insights. This study integrates converted waves from distant earthquakes, magnetotelluric sounding, and gravimagnetic surveys to map crustal sections with unprecedented uniformity. The findings support a model where the contemporary Alpine structure of the Greater Caucasus formed through gentle northward thrusting of the Scythian Plate over the consolidated southern microplate's crust. This research enhances understanding of tectonic processes shaping the region.

Shempelev, A. G., Zaalishvili, V. B., & Kukhmazov, S. U. (2017). Deep structure of the western part of the Central Caucasus from geophysical data. Geotectonics, 51(5), 479–488. https://doi.org/10.1134/s0016852117050053