Neotectonics At Punta de Tralca (33°25´S), Central Coastal Chile

Abstract

The present work is developed at Punta de Tralca Peninsula, located in the central coast at the Valparaíso Region of Chile. This location and its surroundings account for the complex tectonic and geomorphological history that has been recorded in the present land relief. Morphologies resembling wave-cut platforms disposed at different elevations are part of the main traits comprising the peninsula. In this thesis, detailed mapping and description of the entire study area is presented in order to establish a first approach towards understanding the main processes that have played a role in the modelling of the current topography. To fulfill this purpose, drones have been used for the obtainment of high-resolution imagery and elevation models through the Structure from Motion method (SfM). Additionally, analysis and measurement of geomorphological features such as tafoni are considered in this work. Tafoni develop worldwide and can constitute a complementary tool for the determination of a temporal evolution in a specific area. With data gathered during fieldwork, calculations of exposure ages are attempted for some of the platforms present at the peninsula. Finally, it is expected to correlate the history told by these superficial features with the recent seismic record, as well as long-term tectonics that have affected this part of the Chilean central coast.