A model of the earthquake cycle along the Gofar oceanic transform faults

• DOI: 10.26443/seismica.v3i2.1382
• Publication Date: 2024-11-06T23:13:15Z
• Authors: Meng (Matt) Wei; Lingchao He; Bridget Smith-Konter
• Keywords: Transform fault

The Gofar oceanic transform fault at the East Pacific Rise has one of best seismic cycles recorded by modern instruments. timing, location, and magnitude major earthquakes (Mw>5.5) have been well constrained data from global networks for past 30 years. earthquake interval is short, about 3-5 Several segments already experienced 5 since 1995, when network was good enough surface wave relocation. Two ocean bottom seismometer deployments (2008-2009, 2021-2023) also provide constraints on properties fault. This makes an ideal place to study cycles. Here, we developed a model cycle along using semi-analytical approach rapidly calculating 3D time-dependent deformation stress caused screw dislocations embedded within elastic layer overlying Maxwell viscoelastic half-space. 160-km long divided into three with six asperities. Our simulates pattern this Most time, each asperity ruptured as large every nearly constant Coulomb threshold 2-3 MPa, providing optimal conditions forecasting future Gofar. For cases that deviated simple regular pattern, occurred centroid location between two likely due concurrent rupture involved both We modeled different thicknesses mantle viscosities. Even though most in horizontal direction, difference vertical directions models can be few centimeters per year. seafloor geodesy methods used differentiate models, pressure might appropriate remote location.