A Dislocation theory of earthquakes

A mechanism for the generation of seismic waves is postulated that is based on the release of shear strain dislocations. A certain probability of release of dislocations is also postulated. From these there are deduced expressions for the frequency distribution of shocks, energy released, etc., that are in agreement with observations. It is shown that a random superposition of pulses such as those released by individual dislocations will form an accelerogram, that has the appearance and properties of recorded accelerograms. The relation between the maximum ground acceleration and the size of slip area is examined. It is concluded that the existing recorded strong ground motion accelerograms are reliable samples of possible strong ground motions.