| Webster's Online Dictionary |
| Expressions | Definition | ||
| Benioff zone | A Benioff zone (also Benioff-Wadati zone or Wadati-Benioff zone) is a deep active seismic area in a subduction zone. Differential motion along the zone produces deep seated earthquakes. They develop beneath volcanic island arcs and continental margins above active subduction zones. The deep earthquakes along the zone allow seismologists to map the three dimensional surface of a subducting slab of oceanic crust and mantle. (references) | ||
Source: compiled by the editor from various references; see credits. | Top | ||
| Expressions | Domain | Definition | |
| Benioff zone | Geological | A dipping planar (flat) zone of earthquakes that is produced by the interaction of a downgoing oceanic crustal plate with a continental plate. These earthquakes can be produced by slip along the subduction thrust fault or by slip on faults within the downgoing plate as a result of bending and extension as the plate is pulled into the mantle. Also known as the Wadati-Benioff zone. (references) | |
Source: compiled by the editor from various references; see credits. | Top | ||
