Earthquake Geology and Tectonophysics around Eastern Tibet and Taiwan

The source rupture processes and coseismic surface rupture of the Wenchuan earthquake are recognized as having the complicated patterns of a great earthquake. In this article, we review some of the Wenchuan earthquake source studies conducted by scientists from Taiwan and mainland China under the scientific cooperation of both sides of the Taiwan Strait. To clarify how these ruptures developed and their tectonic implications, we report the source imaging using two regional seismic arrays based on the back-projection method and a detailed investigation of the surface rupture in the Xiaoyudong, Sichuan area, which is the junction area of the two main surface ruptures, and of the kinematic fault rupture process. The role of the Xiaoyudong salient is thoroughly investigated, and further implications regarding earthquake rupture processes and regional tectonics are addressed.