Field of vertical crustal deformation in North China and the feature of its dynamic evolution

Abstract

Based on the data of precise leveling surveys for 30-odd years and using unified adjustment method, unified starting point of calculation and unified network, contour maps of the vertical crustal deformation rate in North China during the periods of 1965–1975, 1975–1979, 1979–1983 and 1983–1988 have been drawn. Meanwhile, the evolution of vertical crustal deformations has also been studied from a dynamic viewpoint. The results of analysis show that there is an obvious correspondence between the regular variations of the vertical crustal deformation field and the seismic cycles. Furthermore, the paper has also inferred that this correspondence might be related to the micro-variations of the regional stress/strain field. Finally, some problems related to the vertical deformation field and earthquake prediction have been discussed.