Geomorphological-pedological evolution of cuesta escarpment foothills in the State of São Paulo

Abstract

The cuesta escarpments, located between the Peripheral Depression of São Paulo and the Western Plateau of the State of São Paulo are among the most expressive landforms of the Paraná Sedimentary Basin. Those features are characterized by dissymmetrical forms, comprised by a gentle backslope and a cliff-like frontslope (escarpment). The landforms on the bottom of the frontslope have their genesis related to correlative deposits and in situ alterations, and the interpretations are based, mainly, in the allochthonous or autochthonous nature of the materials, attributions based in the morphogenetic balance and elaboration of neogenic surfaces. However, in disagreement with the classical literature, elongated hills (pediments or glacis) with virtually no correlative deposits and quaternary materials are found on the foothills of the São Pedro / SP cuesta escarpments. This points to the need of further investigations regarding the genesis of such materials, in order to determine their allochthonous or autochthonous nature, establish their ages and associate them with the landform evolution, thus contributing to elucidate how the geomorphic processes produced those surfaces throughout the geological history. This work aims to investigate, in detail, a hillslope located on the foothills of the São Pedro cuesta's frontslope. In order to accomplish that, field surveys, mapping, laboratorial and in-office analysis will take place, contributing for a better understanding of the relationship between landforms, materials and processes in the Peripheral Depression - Western Plateau of São Paulo transition. This proposal will represent an advancement not only within the specific knowledge of the subject, but also for the theoretical basis, methodology and techniques employed. (AU)