Mathematical block-motion model for deformation of a layer above a buried fault of arbitrary dip and sense of slip

Thomas L. Patton, Raymond C. Fletcher

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Abstract

An analytic series solution is obtained for the stress and deformation in an isotropic viscous, or incompressible elastic layer subjected to rigid-block motion at its base. The block motion approximates slip on a pre-existing basement fault of arbitrary dip and sense of slip. Deformation in the layer due to horizontally-separating and horizontally-converging blocks, slip on a vertical basement fault, and slip on 45 °-dipping reverse and normal basement faults is examined. Above horizontally-diverging and -converging blocks, a symmetric syncline and anticline form, respectively. Monoclines form above dipping basement faults. The location of the monocline, and to a lesser degree its form, vary systematically with fault attitude and sense of slip. For a given fault displacement, the region of brittle failure in a basement normal-fault model is larger than that in a reverse-fault model. New faults formed in the layer are arcuate in profile. Model results agree with observations of stress orientation and deformation from laboratory models.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1455-1472
Number of pages18
JournalJournal of Structural Geology
Volume17
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1995

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Geology

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