Fractal Analysis of the Global Seismicity and Bouguer Gravity Field - Possible Environmental Consequences

Rosen Iliev and Boyko Ranguelov*

In this study, an analysis of the connection between the spatial distribution of strong earthquakes (M ≥ 6.0) around the world and the Bouguer gravity anomaly gradients is made. The aim of this study is to use relatively less familiar method of the fractal analysis to reveal the relationship between the global gravity field and the regional seismicity related mainly to the subduction zones (the most powerful seismic energy emitters). For this purpose, the Bouguer gravity anomaly (BGA) field is represented as a synthetic fractal surface. The results obtained show that during the last century, more than 90% of the strong earthquakes occurred in places with maximum gradients in the Bouguer gravity values (Fractal Dimension, FD ≥ 2.6). The discussion shows differences between subduction seismic generators and other geodynamic elements emitting seismic energy like transform faults, intraplate seismic regions (for example, Tibet Plateau, Nasca Plate, Mid-Atlantic ridge, etc.). As the magnitude increases, so does the correlation between them. For earthquakes with M 7.0 - 7.9 and M 8.0 - 8.9, the relationship is 95%, and by M ≥ 9.0, even 100%. This supports the conclusion the self-similarity of the geophysical parameters and their direct connection with the Earth’s geodynamics. It is well known that the areas with high geodynamics (strong earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, etc.) cause significant environmental changes affecting populations, infrastructure, and biodiversity. 

Keywords:

Published on: Apr 18, 2025 Pages: 26-29

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/2455-488X.000092
CrossMark Publons Harvard Library HOLLIS Search IT Semantic Scholar Get Citation Base Search Scilit OAI-PMH ResearchGate Academic Microsoft GrowKudos Universite de Paris UW Libraries SJSU King Library SJSU King Library NUS Library McGill DET KGL BIBLiOTEK JCU Discovery Universidad De Lima WorldCat VU on WorldCat