Crustal velocity structures and their tectonic implications in different tectonic block regions of the Chinese mainland

In this paper, the typical velocity structures and average velocities of the crust in six different active tectonic block regions are presented on the basis of previous studies and their tectonic implications are discussed. The results show that different tectonic units have different features of crustal velocity structures. In general, there are low velocity distributions in the crust in regions with strong tectonic activities, and the scales of low velocity distributions are related to the tectonic activities. The average velocities are relatively low in such regions. This reflects strong crustal deformation and the variations of states of matter in the crust resulting from strong tectonic movements. These regions are also seismically active zones frequented by strong earthquakes. Therefore, studying crustal velocity structures of these regions is of great importance to understanding crustal geodynamic process and seismogenic tectonic background.