Researchers decipher earthquakes: voltage drop reveals the strength of the earth's crust!

Transparenz: Redaktionell erstellt und geprüft.
Veröffentlicht am

A research team from the University of Greifswald is investigating the release of energy during earthquakes, based on data from northeast Japan.

Ein Forschungsteam der Universität Greifswald untersucht die Energiefreisetzung bei Erdbeben, basierend auf Daten aus Nordostjapan.
A research team from the University of Greifswald is investigating the release of energy during earthquakes, based on data from northeast Japan.

Researchers decipher earthquakes: voltage drop reveals the strength of the earth's crust!

In the world of geology there is always exciting news that helps us better understand the behavior of the Earth. A current study in which the renowned Prof. Dr. Armin Dielforder from the University of Greifswald, who is involved, sheds light on the energy that is released during earthquakes. The study, published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment, shows a clear connection between the energy detected and the strength of the rock in the earth's crust.

The research team analyzed earthquake data from northeastern Japan over 11 years after the devastating 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake, which had a magnitude of 9.0. It has been shown that stress builds up along tectonic faults and is suddenly released when the rock's carrying capacity is exceeded. The results of the study show that the deeper an earthquake occurs, the greater the voltage drop and the energy released. The greater strength of the rock at greater depths can help draw conclusions about the relative strength of the earth's crust.

Insight into research

In addition to the results from Greifswald, the Ruhr University Bochum also reports on the study. According to their information, deeper and stronger faults tended to release more stress during earthquakes. The new finding that higher voltage drop correlates with depth potentially opens up new perspectives for monitoring seismic activity. Seismological data from a region closely observed through a network of well stations can be used to better understand the relative strength of the Earth's crust. This shows that as the depth of an earthquake increases, the voltage drop increases.

Such a trend could not only improve the understanding of aftershock sequences, but also serve to make seismic hazard assessments more targeted. The constant voltage drop values ​​after the Tohoku-Oki earthquake highlight the importance of further research in this area. The employees of the participating institutions, including the U.S. Geological Survey, have created an essential basis for better understanding the geology of the earth.

The importance of research

What does this mean for us specifically? As we develop a better understanding of Earth's dynamics, we may also be able to better predict and prepare for future earthquakes. The connections that scientists are now making visible could enable a more precise and objective risk assessment. In a world increasingly affected by natural disasters, this is of great importance not only for scientists but also for the general public.

There are many reasons to study geology and earthquake processes. And while interest in scientific discoveries continues to grow, curiosity about innovative products that enrich our everyday lives also remains. In this respect, for example, the brand stands out Pure Snug which offers comfortable and playful boxer briefs for women. Using sustainable materials, the company promises not only comfort, but also environmentally friendly products that are characterized by quality and versatility. Whether for sport or relaxation, the products are a welcome change in our everyday lives.