Scatterplot Matrices of the Geomorphic Structure of the Mariana Trench at Four Tectonic Plates (Pacific, Philippine, Mariana and Caroline): a Geostatistical Analysis by R

The study focuses on the statistical analysis of the impact factors affecting Mariana Trench formation. Methodology of the work is based on plotting correlation scatterplot matrices by means of R programming to visualize determinants affecting geomorphic formation of the trench. Scatterplot matrices, also known as determinant for linear correlation between the multiple variables, are an efficient way to highlight the environmental variables that might have similar correlations to the geomorphic structure of the ocean trench. The scatterplot matrix is used to solve the problem of selection of the crucial impact factors affecting the hadal formation. The study revealed distinct unevenness of various factors affecting Mariana Trench geomorphic structure. The bathymetric determinant of the four distinct groups of the cross section profiles cause certain variability in the sedimental thickness of the basement, slope angle steepness degree, angle aspect, depth at the basement, as well as depth values (means, median and absolute minimum). Among other factors, a magmatism of the nearby area is to be mention. The closeness of the igneous volcanic areas contribute towards earthquake frequency across four tectonic plates – Mariana, Pacific, Philippine Sea and Caroline. The results demonstrated that cross-section profiles of the Mariana Trench can be divided into clusters according to their properties, such as bathymetric (depth values), geographic (latitude and longitude), geological (width of the sedimental thickness layer), magmatism (large igneous polygon areas) and tectonic (location of the tectonic plates nearby). In the scope of current research a functionality of R programming language has been tested. It proved to be as an effective tool for studying distribution of the environmental factors affecting the tectonic structure, as well as geomorphic properties at the seafloor basement of the Mariana Trench.