Studying radioactive fields and geodynamic regime in oil-producing depression zones of Azerbaijan

The issue of radioactive fields in oil-producing depression zones is one of the important directions among studies of depressions where the thick cover of Quaternary formations makes it difficult to identify active structures, geodynamic zones, non-anticlinal traps which are associated with prospective oil-bearing areas in Azerbaijan. Our research has established that gamma anomalies form under the influence of tectonogenesis and are controlled by deep-seated tectonic activity. Regardless of trap type, subsurface hydrocarbon accumulations manifest in surface gamma fields as negative anomalies. This has stimulated further development of radiometric methods for addressing various issues related to geological processes and the exploration of oil fields. Our previous studies indicate that the radioecological situation in certain areas can be considered hazardous due to the increase in background radiation. To stabilize the radioecological situation and reduce the background radiation as far as possible, analyzing the causes responsible for the rise in background radiation in a given territory is of high relevance. Natural background radiation on the ground surface is conditioned by radioelements found in the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust, as well as by the influence of the deep tectonic processes. The concentrations and ratios of radioactive elements in any area result from various geological processes occurring deep within the Earth. Our research established a correlation between radioactive anomalies, geophysical fields and modern vertical movements of the Earth’s crust.