A terrestrial shear pattern?

Abstract

The concept of the strain ellipsoid is applied to indicate a possible regular shear pattern of earthquake distribution over the Earth's surface. A simple model of the Earth is assumed in the form of a rotating sphere with a plastic interior and a thin, fragile, crust. On this basis rotation of the Earth generates an internal radial pressure at the equator equivalent to 1/300g causing a proportionate distortion of the spherical shell. The system is in dynamic equilibrium with an increase in gravity at the equator. The ellipsoid representing the distortion, has orthogonal principal axes corresponding to the principal strains while radial directions at 54°44′$(\tan ^{ - 1} \sqrt 2 )$ from the poles are unchanged in length and are thus possible axes of shear generating the same distortion. The Alpide region of earthquakes extending from Lisbon to Tokyo and restriction of earthquakes mainly to the broad band between latitudes 55°N or S are in support of the proposed view.

Four unique sets of orthogonal shear systems have been identified which form a regular pattern with a definite symmetry with respect to the plane of the ecliptic. This suggests that the hoop stress at the Equator associated with Earth rotation may be triggered off by tidal forces and that earthquake prediction may well be possible. Other implications of this new approach are also discussed.