Seismology Meets Gravity: Earthquake Depth Distributions and Gravity Anomalies in Himalaya–Tibet and Indian Subcontinent and Their Relations with Lithospheric Structure
摘要
Time and space dependent gravity changes provide insights into the distribution and movement of Earth’s masses. The static and temporal changes in gravity measurements are crucial for modeling and monitoring geodynamic and geophysical processes associated with seismicity. Gravity, a fundamental force that shapes the universe, unveils variations in mass redistribution beneath the surface. These variations assist in mapping geological features and hidden structures, ranging from surface to those within the dense mantle. This chapter examines how gravitational measurements enhance our understanding of the Earth’s crustal and lithospheric structures and their associated seismicity. We examine the connection between gravity and seismology as essential tools in contemporary geoscience. The objective of this study is to investigate the spatial relationships among earthquake depth distributions, gravity anomalies, and lithospheric structure in the Himalaya–Tibet and the Indian Subcontinent based on previously published results. The Free-air, Bouguer, and Isostatic residual anomaly maps of India and the Himalaya–Tibet region are examined in relation to lithospheric structure and earthquake depth distributions. Additionally, the discussion includes the Northern extent of the Indian lithosphere and the basement ridges beneath the Ganga Basin and their connection to Himalayan tectonics and associated seismic activity. Furthermore, advancing temporal gravity GRACE missions (GRACE and GRACE-FO) has enhanced applied studies of gravity variations linked to significant earthquakes. The mass variations detected by the GRACE satellites months prior to an earthquake have provided new insights into the signatures of seismic events.