Analysis of fracture patterns in southern Norway

Abstract

Linear features (believed to represent fractures of some kind) seen on Landsat satellite images, topographic maps and geological maps have been mapped for the area of southern Norway (roughly the region south of the 65° parallel). Special attention is given to the area of the Oslo Graben. The results of the analysis are related to the main geological and geophysical features of the region, of which a brief description is given. A system of NW-SE and NE-SW sets of lineaments is present over most of the region and predominates in the Precambrian area; it is thought to be the oldest structural element. In the Caledonian belt the NE-SW set is predominant, in accordance with the general strike. A roughly N-S trending set is obviously associated with the Oslo Graben but extends well to the north of the latter; a similar pattern is also present near the west coast. An E-W set is locally associated with Devonian movements. The coastlines of southern Norway conform closely to the directions of the dominant fracture pattern in the vicinity.