Estrutura circular no relevo: o caso de Morro do Chapéu-BA

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze and disseminate the morphological and structural characteristics, as well as to propose the evolutionary model of a circular structure located in Morro do Chapéu, Bahia, Brazil. The research included pre-field, field, and post-field stages, involving literature review, acquisition of drone images, generation of an orthophoto and digital elevation model (DEM), data analysis, and vectorization of structural lineaments. The main circular structure presents concentric terraces, dendritic radial drainage, and compartmentalization into five geomorphological units, including vegetated areas, isolated blocks, and exposed rock surfaces. Results indicate that its formation derives from the interaction between structural, weathering, and erosive factors, which transformed an originally more angular structure into a circular-shaped landform. It is concluded that the structure does not have a magmatic, volcanic, or meteorite impact origin, with its formation being possibly linked to the combined action of processes associated with sedimentary environments, such as weathering, erosion and structural control. Finally, further studies are recommended to investigate the tectonic and climatic influences on the relief evolution in the area, deepening the understanding of the processes and their impact on local and regional geomorphology.