Question

Why do deep-focus earthquakes occur along subduction zones?

Short answer

Deep-focus earthquakes occur along subduction zones because the subducting plate experiences increasing pressures and temperatures, causing rocks to undergo phase transitions. These phase transitions change the volume and density of the rock, leading to increased stress and the eventual release of energy in the form of an earthquake. Despite the high pressures and temperatures that would typically make rocks ductile, the phase transitions cause them to become brittle, allowing ruptures to form and resulting in deep-focus earthquakes.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction to Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur when energy stored in the Earth's crust is suddenly released, causing the ground to shake. This energy is usually built up over time as tectonic plates move and interact with each other. The point where the energy is released is called the focus, while the point on the Earth's surface directly above it is called the epicenter.

Deep-Focus Earthquakes

Deep-focus earthquakes are a type of earthquake that occurs at depths greater than 300 kilometers (186 miles) below the Earth's surface. Normally, earthquakes occur at shallow depths, but deep-focus earthquakes can reach depths of about 600-700 kilometers (373-435 miles). These earthquakes are much less common than shallow-focus earthquakes, and their origin has been a subject of scientific debate.

Plate Tectonics and Subduction Zones

The Earth's crust is made up of several large tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below. These plates are constantly moving, and their interactions along their boundaries can give rise to various geological phenomena, such as earthquakes. A subduction zone is a type of plate boundary where one tectonic plate slides under another, causing the denser plate to sink into the mantle below. This process is called subduction. Subduction zones are usually associated with deep ocean trenches and volcanic arcs.

Connection between Deep-Focus Earthquakes and Subduction Zones

Deep-focus earthquakes occur along subduction zones because when the dense oceanic plate sinks into the mantle, it experiences increasing pressures and temperatures. As the subducting plate is forced deeper, rocks in the plate start to transform into denser minerals due to the high pressure. This process, called phase transition, causes a change in the volume and density of the rock, leading to an increase in stress and thus the release of energy in the form of an earthquake. At great depths in subduction zones, the rocks are under immense pressure, and the temperature is high, which should theoretically make the rocks ductile or relatively soft. However, the phase transitions in the subducting slab cause the rocks to become brittle, allowing ruptures to form and energy to be released in the form of deep-focus earthquakes.

Summary

Deep-focus earthquakes occur along subduction zones due to the intense pressures and temperatures experienced by the subducting plate, leading to phase transitions in the rock. These phase transitions cause the rock to become brittle and susceptible to rupturing, releasing energy in the form of deep-focus earthquakes.