Newly Discovered Fault Line May Explain Lisbon Earthquakes

Newly Discovered Fault Line May Explain Lisbon Earthquakes

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Newly Discovered Fault Line May Explain Lisbon Earthquakes

A newly discovered 200km fault line off the coast of Cabo de São Vicente may explain the large earthquakes that struck Lisbon in 1755 and 1969, according to a study published in Nature Geosciences.

Turkish
United States
OtherScienceEarthquakePortugalGeologyTectonic PlatesLisbonDelamination
Lisbon University Faculty Of ScienceNature Geosciences
João Duarte
How was this geological feature discovered and what methods were used to study it?
The fault line was discovered using a method described as "Earth ultrasound", which revealed a slow plate separation process occurring over 5-10 million years. Researchers placed seismometers on the seafloor for eight months to record small earthquakes, which formed a cluster indicative of a process generating seismic activity. Computer models were used to simulate the delamination process.
What are the future implications of this discovery, particularly regarding earthquake prediction and infrastructure?
The discovery provides a better understanding of the mechanisms behind Lisbon's earthquakes, potentially improving prediction models. The installation of new underwater communication cables across the Atlantic could also enhance seismic monitoring in the region. This knowledge can inform the design and construction of earthquake-resistant infrastructure in the Lisbon area.
What is the newly discovered geological feature and its potential significance in explaining Lisbon's major earthquakes?
A 200km long fault line, resulting from a delamination process where a section of the tectonic plate has separated, has been discovered off the coast of Cabo de São Vicente. This discovery may explain why Lisbon is prone to major earthquakes, as the separation of the plate creates stress that is eventually released as seismic energy.

Cognitive Concepts

2/5

Bias by Omission

While the article provides a comprehensive explanation of the geological discovery, it could benefit from including potential limitations of the study or alternative interpretations. Further details on the methodology used in the 'World Ultrasound' technique would enhance understanding.