Evaluation of karst features using principal component analysis (PCA): a case from Zarneh and Kergan, Western Iran

Zarneh and Kergan are two limestone mountains of the Zagros mountain range located in Western Iran. High-volume lime and relatively heavy rainfall have provided a favorable condition for the development of karst features in the highlands of the Zagros mountains. The present study was carried out to detect karst features in the High Zagros Belt using satellite images. In this case, some aspects such as climate, structural criteria, and sub-criteria are affecting the formation of karst sinkholes and are identified in this study. The results indicate that karst features of sinkholes have originated from joints and faults which are caused by tectonic motions over time. In terms of spatial dispersion, the sinkholes are found at altitudes higher than 1900m in Kargan and 2000m in Zarneh. This proved the importance of altitudinal gradient, the role of moisture, and pleasant climatic conditions on the development of karst features in the study area.