The theory of the dislocation processes and its application to the Pacific Region

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This paper deals with the mechanism of earthquakes according to dislocation theory. An attempt is made to explain the dislocation processes in the region of troughs and ridges. A preliminary comparison of the proposed dislocation mechanism with the Pacific Region data is discussed. For the sake of simplification the seismic processes are considered only in a plane which plays the part both of the hypocentral and the dislocation plane. Two factors are of special interest, namely, stresses and inhomogeneities. In the stress field we can describe the inhomogeneities by loop-type dislocations. The stress field influences their extent and movement by which the greater dislocation elements are formed. These elements may in approximation be regarded as pairs of two unlike linear dislocations. We may therefore assume the existence of pair creation areas. By the parting of the dislocation lines of a pair the dislocation area enclosed by them is increased. There may occur the junction of two or more extending dislocation areas. This junction is accompanied by release of the energy accumulated around the dislocation limiting lines, which are thus annihilated. Similarly, when the dislocation reaches the earth's surface a discharge of its dislocation energy occurs.