In general, the term 'geological complexity' is used qualitatively. Are there any indicators, which can quantify the complexity? Or how the complexity of terrains be compared?
Dear Thomas, you can use statistical methods to quantify geological complexity. I suggest Fuzzy Comprehensive Model for evaluation of geological structure complexity.
I recently came across an interesting method for quantifying geological complexity, the authors used fractal dimension obtained by box counting. They have used it to prospect Copper but my intent was to adapt a similar method for automated geological mapping.
One way of quantitative analysis of geological complexity would be a statistical one starting from the number of elements (layers or bodies) that make up the structure and the number of tectonic elements that cross it, respectively the sequence of their occurrence. But in order to have a fair and comprehensive analysis, it is necessary to establish a numerical coding system for various types of geological and structural elements, depending on their importance. Problems arise, however, because not in all structures, the same geological characteristic has the same participation in the increase or decrease of complexity, and consequently the statistical factor remains local and not general.
I think you find parallels with the question in the paper of Iván Almár and coauthor: the London scale. The authors try to formulate the impact of a discovery which is complex enough (for example: to find life somewhere in the Solar System). Earlier other scales were also used by I. Almár in connection with the CETI researcg.