Assessment of Neotectonic Activity in the Zanjan-Rud Basin Using Fibonacci Golden Ratios

Document Type : Research Article

Author

Associate Professor, Department of Geography, University of Yasouj, Yasouj, Iran

Abstract

The Zanjan-Rud Basin, located in northwestern Iran, is a tectonically active region influenced by major faults such as the Sultaneih and Northern Zanjan faults. This study aimed to evaluate the morphotectonic status of the basin using digital elevation model (DEM) data and the application of Fibonacci golden ratios (0.236, 0.382, 0.5, 0.618, 0.764, and 1) for slope classification. The results revealed that over 84.6% of the basin lies within a slope range of 7–23%, indicating generally weak to moderate tectonic activity. However, areas with slopes exceeding 76% (Fibonacci ratio 0.764) and above 76% (ratio 1) were identified along structural lineaments, particularly near the Sultaneih and Northern Zanjan faults. These zones exhibit steep topography, deep valleys, and abrupt changes in drainage patterns, suggesting potential neotectonic influence. Lithological resistance was also found to play a significant role in shaping high-slope features, especially in areas dominated by andesitic and metamorphic rocks. Comparative analysis with previous studies indicates that while some geomorphic features may be attributed to erosional processes and base-level adjustments during the Quaternary, others reflect recent tectonic activity. The use of Fibonacci ratios proved effective in identifying critical thresholds in topographic variation, offering a novel quantitative approach for neotectonic assessments in similar geological settings.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 25 December 2025
  • Receive Date: 24 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 02 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 25 December 2025
  • First Publish Date: 25 December 2025
  • Publish Date: 25 December 2025