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Published on: August 5, 2016
Weak interplate coupling by seamounts and repeating M approximately 7 earthquakes
Kimihiro Mochizuki1, Tomoaki Yamada, Masanao Shinohara
1Earthquake Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan. kimi@eri.u-tokyo.ac.jp
Subducting seamounts may not strengthen plate coupling as expected. Seismic data from the Japan Trench suggest weak coupling over a subducting seamount, influencing earthquake rupture areas.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Seismology
- Tectonics
Background:
- Subducting seamounts are traditionally believed to increase interplate stress.
- Recent seismic and laboratory data indicate potentially weak interplate coupling.
- Understanding seamount subduction is crucial for seismic hazard assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of subducting seamounts on interplate coupling and seismicity.
- To analyze seismic data in the Japan Trench related to seamount subduction.
- To evaluate the role of seamounts in earthquake rupture dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Conducted seismic surveys in the Japan Trench.
- Analyzed seismicity patterns, including repeating earthquakes.
- Examined rupture propagation during a specific seismic event (1982 M 7.0).
Main Results:
- Observed weak interplate coupling over a subducting seamount.
- Identified a large rupture area with minimal slip occurring in front of the seamount.
- Suggested that the width of the subducted seamount may influence the rupture area's extent.
Conclusions:
- Subducting seamounts do not necessarily enhance interplate coupling.
- Seamount subduction can lead to complex rupture patterns and influence earthquake behavior.
- The geometry of subducted seamounts plays a role in defining seismic rupture characteristics.
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