On the nonlinear dynamics of rupture

Abstract. The rupture on a fault resulting in an earthquake is clearly a complex process. In order to better understand this process the continuum version of the slider-block model has been considered in some detail. In particular, the role of a cohesive breakaway zone is considered. Solutions of a "piston" problem and a "shock-tube" problem are obtained. For the "dirven" problem the cohesive breakaway solution is combined with a viscous resistance on the fault to obtain solutions that are reasonably realistic in terms of fault rupture.