Association of the Relationship Between Tectonic Lineaments and Natural Springs Around Nigde Massif, Central Anatolia, Turkey

Abstract

In this study, the aim was to determine the relationship between tectonic lineaments derived from satellite data and springs. The study area covers Gümüşler (Nigde) and its surroundings in the northern Nigde Massif. The study investigated the connection between this area’s tectonic lineaments and natural water resources. Remote sensing methods used in mineral exploration and the determination of geothermal fields have also been applied in this study, supported by intensive field studies. The high-grade metamorphic rocks of the massif exhibit faulted and fractured structures due to polyphase deformation, giving these rocks important aquifer characteristics. Numerous springs have formed due to the effects of faults and fractures. The study definitively established the relationship between 82 natural water resources (springs) and tectonic lineaments. Almost 87% of the identified natural water resources are located on lineaments. In addition, other springs were determined to have discharge due to discontinuities in formation boundaries.