Impact of Tectonic Indicators on the Morphometric Characteristics of the Shor Ab Valley Basins, Badra District, Eastern Iraq, Using GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques

Abstract

    This study aims to analyze the impact of tectonic variables on the morphometric characteristics of the Shor Ab Valley Basin, located in Badra District in the eastern part of Iraq, using Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data with appropriate resolution were used to extract the basin’s fundamental morphometric parameters, including basin area, perimeter, form factor, elongation ratio, relief ratio, slope, and drainage network characteristics such as stream orders, drainage density, and drainage pattern. Active tectonic indicators were also analyzed, such as the asymmetry factor (AF), basin shape factor (BF), valley floor width-to-height ratio (Vf), and stream length–gradient index (SL), to determine the extent to which recent tectonic movements influence the basin’s structure and drainage network. The results revealed clear relationships between tectonic activity and drainage directions, stream gradients, and channel irregularities, indicating a significant role of tectonic variables in reshaping the geomorphological structure of the basin. This research contributes to understanding the morphotectonic evolution of the Badra border region and identifying the degree of tectonic activity and its impact on the basin’s hydromorphological development. The findings provide a useful database for water resource management and for assessing potential future geomorphological hazards.