关键词: 张北地震, 破裂特征, 震源定位, 震源机制, 宏观烈度, 震源断层

Abstract: Based upon the far-field and near-field digital seismic records, the hypocenter locations of M_L≥3 earthquakes of the Zhangbei earthquake sequence occurred during January, 1998-March, 1999 have been re-determined by using relative locating method. The results show that the process of the earthquake sequence can be divided into three stages. The first stage occurred in January 1988, which is the stage of the occurrence and adjustment of the main shocks. The seismic activity in this stage occurred mostly along NWW-SEE direction. The second stage occurred during February ～August 1998, which is the active period of moderate aftershocks occurred mostly along NNE direction. The third stage was represented by the occurrence of M 5.6 earthquake on March 11, 1999, the hypocenter of which was aligned also along NNE direction, but was out of the hypocenter area of the main shock. It seems that the two hypocenters were not connected with each other. The rupture characteristics of the Zhangbei earthquake sequence is given on the basis of the relocation of the hypocenters and the revised focal mechanisms, as well as macroscopic intensity distribution data of this earthquake sequence. It is suggested that the earthquake sequence consists of one main left-lateral strike-slip rupture plane, and 2 right-lateral strike slip secondary rupture planes. The main rupture plane is NWW-trending, NNE-dipping at an angle of 44°, and 11.5km in length. The two secondary rupture planes are NNE-trending with a high dip angle. The main rupture plane is conjugate with the NNE-trending secondary rupture planes while the two NNE-trending rupture planes are aligned in right-step en ecelon. The three rupture planes occurred sequentially, the depth of the which is 1.4～7.6 km at shallow part of the crust. The present study shows that it is a doable approach to research the focal rupture of a strong earthquake sequence from three dimensional space by using exact hypocenter 1ocation, focal mechanism and macro-intensity distribution data in "tectonically stable area" where no active fault is found.

Key words: Zhangbei earthquake, Rupture characteristic, Hypocenter location, Focal mechanism, Macro-intensity, Focal rupture