Three-dimensional analyses of slip distributions on normal fault arrays with consequences for fault scaling

摘要: Abstract Many fault arrays consist of echelon segments. Field data on ancient and active faults indicate that such segmented geometries have a pronounced effect the distribution slip. Outcrop measurements slip segments show that: (i) point maximum generally is not located at centre segment; (ii) displacement gradients steepen towards adjacent for underlapping faults; (iii) become more gentle near tips overlapping faults. Numerical analyses suggest mechanical interaction between neighbouring may cause asymmetrical distributions. This occurs through local perturbation stress field, does require to be connected. For normal faults, degree interaction, hence asymmetry in distribution, increases with increasing height overlap decreasing spacing. The magnitude along discontinuous array can nearly equal single larger continuous provided small Fault ratio length, especially closely spaced, Slip-to-length ratios also depend three-dimensional shape. slip-to-length height. effects shape together lead than one order variation simple case event homogeneous isotropic rock. One should expect greater complex conditions found nature. Two-dimensional scaling models represent this behaviour.