Publication Date:
2017-04-05
Description:
Using the fault plane mechanisms of the shallow earthquakes occurring along the Hellenic arc and the extent of the intermediate seismic belt, we make a quantitative estimate of the relative motion occurring between the Hellenic arc and the adjacent sea floor. This estimate is then used to evaluate the deformation in the Aegean area and to reconstruct the pattern of motion over the Eastern Mediterranean region for the last 13 m.y. It is shown that this pattern is compatible with the neotectonic and seismicity studies in Aegea. We then discuss the dynamics of the area and propose that, since Serravallian-Tortonian time, Aegea has been spreading gravitationally in front of the southwestward advancing Turkey. The reasons for this gravitational spreading are discussed.
Type:
Article
,
PeerReviewed
Format:
text