Chapter Fifteen – The Alps – Neotectonics

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the neotectonics of the Alps. The distribution of earthquakes on both sides of the Mediterranean defines the diffuse boundary between the Eurasian and African plates with other microplates. The technique of direct measurement of active deformation of rocks is based on different methods of varying accuracy such as the contraction of tunnel diameters and the ellipticity of circular boreholes. In regions of strong relief, the interpretation of the results is beset by the difficulty of determining the role of gravity slides on mountain flanks. Present-day relative uplift and lowering of ground level have been measured directly over historical time with respect to the fixed reference of sea level. For periods of geological time, the vertical movement of rocks—that is, their burial or exhumation—is estimated with respect to ground level, which is variable with time. The spatial variation in horizontal movements can be derived from a comparison of repeated geodetic triangulation networks over several decades. The chapter describes the late faults in the field. Measurements of vertical and horizontal movements and a better knowledge of active deep structures are required for an integrated and explanatory model of the neotectonism, which is the subject of the research presented in the chapter.