Theory of fast tectonic waves (Q1097740)

A two-dimensional model is proposed for the propagation of tectonic stress waves that are the trigger of earthquakes in seismoactive regions, and are due to bending-compression of the litospheric slab on the asthenospheric surface flow thereby neglecting inertia forces. The lithosphere is modelled by a thin elastic slab, and the asthenosphere by the flow of a highly viscous incompressible fluid. Their interaction occurs because of the presence of a vertical shift and the action of viscous tangential forces on the lithosphere-asthenosphere interface. To obtain a system of linear equations, longitudinal and transverse potentials are introduced. The periodic low-intensity waves turn out to be standing waves, although also diffusely expanding if there is just no solid-body displacement of the lithosphere on the asthenosphere. If motion of the lithosphere over the earth's crust exists, then solitary waves are possible that take their energy from the stationary asthenospheric flow.