Characteristics and deformation mechanism of staging differential fault activities in Bachu Uplift, Tarim Basin

Based on the interpretation and analysis of the typical seismic profiles, we determined the activity phases of the faults in the Bachu uplift by calculating the amounts and rates of shortening of regional geological sections, and discussed the characteristics and deformation mechanism of staging differential activity. Fault activities took place mainly during the middle Caledonian, early Hercynian, late Hercynian, early Himalayan, middle Himalayan and late Himalayan. They were controlled by regional tectonic setting, pre-existing basement faults, regional detachment layer and some other factors. Compressive stress which generated by the closure of oceanic basin and the collision of plates was the dynamic source of the fault activities. The pre-existing basement faults controlled the position and orientation of the later stage faults. The regional detachment layer controlled fault development and distribution horizons.