USGS · 70014767
Failure of self-similarity for large (Mw > 81/4) earthquakes
Abstract
Compares teleseismic P-wave records for earthquakes in the magnitude range from 6.0-9.5 with synthetics for a self-similar, omega 2 source model and conclude that the energy radiated by very large earthquakes (Mw > 81/4) is not self-similar to that radiated from smaller earthquakes (Mw < 81/4). Furthermore, in the period band from 2 sec to several tens of seconds, it is concluded that large subduction earthquakes have an average spectral decay rate of omega -1.5. This spectral decay rate is consistent with a previously noted tendency of the omega 2 model to overestimate Ms for large earthquakes.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
S.H. Hartzell, T. H. Heaton. 1988-04-01. Failure of self-similarity for large (Mw > 81/4) earthquakes. https://doi.org/10.1785/bssa0780020478
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.