Earthquakes: Most Energy Goes into Heating Rock, Not Tremors
Scientists have uncovered fascinating insights into how earthquakes release their energy. A recent study by researchers, including David Lockner, has revealed that the majority of an earthquake's energy goes into heating the surrounding rock, causing it to melt and liquefy briefly.
The study, conducted using granite samples and magnetic particles in laboratory experiments, found that around 80% of an earthquake's energy is released as heat. This heat causes the rock material near the epicenter to melt and liquefy briefly before solidifying again. Only about 10 percent of the energy is released in the form of seismic vibrations, which we typically feel as tremors.
The remaining energy is distributed in other ways. About 15% goes into fracture surface energy, and approximately 5% is radiated as seismic waves. Less than one percent of the energy is used to break and crush the rock itself. The specific energy budget of an earthquake can vary depending on the deformation history of the surrounding rock.
These findings have significant implications for seismologists. By understanding how earthquakes distribute their energy, they can better predict the likelihood and strength of future earthquakes in prone regions. This new understanding of earthquake energy could lead to improved seismic hazard assessments and potentially save lives.
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