Development characteristics and formation mechanism of transverse faults along the Kuqa thrust belt

Transverse faults are widespread in the thrust belt, and the study of these faults is significant and valuable. Having experienced multi-episodic tectonic changes, the Kuqa thrust belt has had the structural foundation of developing transverse faults. In combination with the remote sensing image, deep geophysical data and seismic section analysis, the authors studied the tectonic characteristics and genetic types of transverse faults in the Kuqa thrust belt. Some conclusions have been reached:(1) There are 16 transverse faults in the Kuqa thrust belt, with structure and properties of nine faults being confirmed. These transverse faults are mainly distributed in northern monocline tectonic zone, Kelasu tectonic zone and Qiulitag tectonic zone; (2) Transverse faults can be divided into three genetic types, i.e., basement activation transverse fault, cover-tear fault and tensional transverse fault; (3) Transverse faults have some geological significance in adjusting the thrust displacement difference between segments, developing transverse rivers, enriching structural styles and controlling oil and gas migration.