9405547 Humphreys This research is to model the dynamics of instantaneous deformation of the western U.S. The deformation is broadly distributed and diverse, yet the occurrence of domains of similar tectonic style suggest that nearly uniform processes occur over broad regions. Together with existing knowledge of crustal structure and relative plate motion data, estimated strength and density structure provide the necessary information to forward model by means of finite- element computer codes the dynamics of western U.S. deformation. The resulting predicted deformation and stress fields can then be compared with space-based geodetic data for model refinement. The product is directly applicable to estimation of earthquake hazards in the western U.S. This research is a component of the National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. ***
