The E-W segments of the contact between the external and internal zones of the Betic and Rif cordilleras and the E-W corridors of the internal zone (a combined explanation)

Abstract

The contact between the Internal Betic-Rif Zone and the corresponding external zones is not regular, sorne sections having a NNE-SSW direction and others approximately EW. These latter coincide with sorne of the corridors of the Internal Zone, and have continuity with those within this zone. A model which relates the two features is proposed, in which the corridors originally corresponds to faults or fault zones which are the eastern continuation of the transcurrent contacts, by means of which the Internal Zone advanced westwardly more easily on its collision with the External Betic Zone. This means that the Internal Zone is divided into various cortical segments and advanced towards the west.
The proposal of the model ineludes a discussion of the Alpujarras and Colmenar corridors, which continue each other, and provides values for the displacement of the zone of faults. With this model, both the transcurrent E-W fauits of the Internal Zone, as well as at least part of the extensional movements affecting this zone, remain subordinate to the shifting of the Internal Zone towards the west.