Deep Subduction Zone Dynamics: Implications of deep tremor and slow slip from the rock record

Subduction zones, where one tectonic plate dives under the other, host large earthquakes. Recently, scientists detected faint tremors coming from deep parts of subduction zones and termed them as deep tremor and slow slip. These tremors were accompanied by a minor land shift toward the ocean. These signals appear to be revealing deep, slow, silent earthquakes that transfer stress up into the locked zone, where large earthquakes originate. Ancient subducted rocks are found in a few places at the Earth’s surface can reveal the mechanisms of locking and slip that produce slow earthquakes. Through field studies and microstructural analyses, I will determine which processes cause these events and investigate the mechanisms of slow earthquakes. These estimates can be used to constrain stress accumulation which controls the size of the earthquake and time till the next large earthquake. Notably, this project will contribute to the advancement of forecasting methods necessary for developing effective disaster mitigation plans.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christie Rowe

Student:

Partner:

Sonoma State University

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Other

University:

McGill University

Program: