Iris: Subduction Zone: Simplified Model of Elastic Rebound

Oblique view of a highly generalized animation of a subduction zone where an oceanic plate is subducting beneath a continental plate. [0:27]

A video detailing the severe danger of megathrust earthquakes. These are known as the most powerful earthquakes on earth. [5:43]

For this lesson, students manipulate a model, consisting of templates on a piece of paper and an overlaying transparency, in order to explore the characteristics of subduction zone earthquakes. In the process, they develop an...

See how converging oceanic and continental tectonic plates react to one another.

This animation shows that GPS can record the movement of the leading edge of the overlying continental plate in a subduction zone. [0:48]

This demonstration shows that rocks are elastic by squeezing a slit core of solid rock. Energy is stored as potential energy while the rock is squeezed. [1:22]

A detailed video featuring the challenges of western South America and why it is such a hot spot for earthquakes. [10:16]

Animation explores how an earthquake early warning system works and shows how ground motion, measured by GPS, can enhance earthquake early warning. [6:57]

Animation shows deformation in three zones above a subduction zone as recorded by GPS stations. [1:17]

Animation shows the buildup of stress along the margin of two stuck plates that are trying to slide past one another deforming rock. [33]