The influence of dynamic and geodynamic processes on the distribution of hydrocarbon-bearing regions

Relevance. The South Caspian megadepression is a structurally and geodynamically complex region where the formation and spatial distribution of hydrocarbon accumulations are controlled by an interplay of tectonic, lithofacies, and dynamic stress factors. Aim. To determine the orientation of predominantly submeridional belts associated with both active and passive continental margins and to evaluate whether their distribution reflects deep geodynamic processes and dynamic stresses induced by Earth rotation and gravitational interactions with celestial bodies. Methods. The study is based on an integrated regional comparative and geodynamic analysis of global and regional hydrocarbon basins. Tectonic maps, lithospheric plate reconstructions, and geological data were analyzed to evaluate the spatial relationships between hydrocarbon belts, subduction zones, rift systems, and passive continental margins. A comparative assessment of selected petroleum provinces, including the South Caspian Basin, was performed to determine how lithospheric stress fields, plate motions, and basin orientation control hydrocarbon accumulation and prospectivity. Structural trends were evaluated using regional tectonic maps and plate reconstructions, whereas geodynamic interpretation was performed through qualitative integration of plate kinematics, regional stress-field orientation, and basin evolution models. Conclusion. Alternating compressional and extensional forces along deep fractures have periodically replenished both sedimentary and crystalline reservoirs with fluids, sustaining continuous hydrocarbon generation in this “cold” basin. Vertical movements of lithospheric blocks, driven by these geodynamic processes, created zones of uplift and subsidence, promoting denudation in elevated areas and sediment accumulation in depressions. This structural heterogeneity created optimal conditions for organic matter deposition and hydrocarbon entrapment. Overall, the distribution of hydrocarbon accumulations in the South Caspian megadepression demonstrates a direct link to both global-scale geodynamic processes and local dynamic stress fields. Understanding these interactions is essential for evaluating petroleum potential in structurally complex basins and integrating tectonic, geophysical, and dynamic analyses for hydrocarbon exploration. For citation: Nasibova G.J., Ganbarova Sh.A. The influence of dynamic and geodynamic processes on the distribution of hydrocarbon-bearing regions. Bulletin of the Tomsk Polytechnic University. Geo Assets Engineering, 2026, vol. 337, no. 7, pp. 125-136. https://doi.org/10.18799/24131830/2026/7/5602