Dynamics Modeling of Discrete Faulting Processes at Mid-Ocean Ridges

这是对脊状断裂的力学研究。首席研究员将开发岩石圈变形模型，明确考虑一组离散断层上的断裂过程。调查分为三个阶段：(1)研究洋中脊构造应力和岩石圈变形作用下单个正断层的基本力学性质；(2)研究洋中脊附近地壳中多条断层之间的力学相互作用及其对断裂模式的影响；(3)应用第一阶段和第二阶段的理论结果，确定中大西洋脊勘探区的断层特征。研究多断层系统的目的是验证近山脊断层的紧密间距是断层之间力学相互作用的结果，以及在缓慢扩展的山脊上的裂谷宽度受岩石圈板块厚度控制的假设。

This is an investigation of the mechanics of ridge faulting. The Principal Investigators will develop lithospheric deformation models that explicitly consider faulting processes on a set of discrete faults. Three phases of the investigation are: (1) to examine the basic mechanics of a single normal fault under ridge tectonic stresses and subsequent lithospheric deformation, (2) to investigate the mechanical interaction among multiple faults in the crust and its effects on faulting patterns near a mid- ocean ridge, and (3) to apply the theoretical results from phase 1 and 2 to determine the characteristics of faulting in well surveyed areas of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The objectives of studying a multiply-faulted system are to test the hypothesis that the close spacing of near-ridge faults os the result of mechanical interactions between faults, and that the width of the rift valley at a slow-spareding ridge is controlled by the thickness of the lithospheric plate.