Abstract: ObjectiveThe hot dry rock in the Matouying uplift area represents the first exploration of hot dry rock resources in central and eastern China. Its thermal genesis mechanism is currently the primary focus of research. Addressing the unclear heat transfer processes in the region's metamorphic rock thermal reservoirs and the insufficiently detailed characterization of the deep temperature field, this study aims to elucidate the heat transfer mechanism, achieve precise characterization of the deep temperature field, and provide theoretical support for the exploration of high-yield hot dry rock wells. MethodsThis study focuses on the metamorphic rock thermal reservoir in the Matouying uplift area of Hebei Province. Utilizing recent measured data from hot dry rock exploration wells in the region, we systematically analyzed the regional structural evolution characteristics, heat flow distribution patterns, and drilling temperature measurements. A heat transfer process analysis model was developed to quantitatively define the key temperature boundaries of typical profiles and to identify their controlling factors. ResultsThis study proposes the theory of "dominant heat transfer" for the thermal storage of dry hot metamorphic rocks in the Matouying uplift area, clarifying that the primary heat source originates from the deep mantle (with shell source heat flow less than 35 mW/m²). The lithospheric tension and thinning caused by the destruction of the North China Craton have intensified mantle thermal convection, establishing dominant deep-to-shallow heat transfer channels. The high thermal conductivity reservoir in the uplifted area facilitates the directional convergence of heat, resulting in conduction-dominated heat flow. Meanwhile, fluid circulation within fault zones drives convection-dominated heat flow, producing a composite heat transfer pattern of in borehole temperature measurement curves. This reveals a nonlinear, "three-stage layer-controlled heat transfer process from the crystalline basement to the surface, influenced by three-dimensional variations in physical properties. Additionally, the "150 ℃ equilibrium line" of a typical profile has been quantitatively defined, enabling refined characterization of the deep temperature field across different structural locations. ConclusionsThis study elucidates the thermal genesis and heat transfer mechanisms of the hot dry rock in the Matouying uplift area, offering new insights to guide the exploration of high-yield hot dry rock wells at the intersections of fault zones in the region. It holds significant theoretical and practical value for the exploration and development of hot dry rock resources in central and eastern China.