Earthquake and Electrochemistry: Unraveling the Unpredictable

Abstract Earthquakes are measured using well defined seismic parameters such as seismic moment (Mo), moment magnitude (Mw), and released elastic energy(E). How this tremendous amount of energy is accumulated silently deep inside the earth's crust? The most obvious question in seismic research remains unanswered. We found an inherent and intriguing connection between the released energy in an earthquake and electrochemical potential induced in an ultra-thin metal oxide electrode immersed in an aqueous pH solution, which leads us to understand the origin of the energy accumulation process in an earthquake. A huge electrochemical potential is accumulated from numerous electrochemical cells formed in a unique layer structure of hydrated clay minerals (predominantly smectite), which resulted in a lightning-like discharge in the lithosphere (hypocenter). The subsequent thunder-like massive shockwave is produced, which initiates tectonic plate movement along a fault line, probably through acoustic fluidization (AF), and resulting seismic energy is transmitted as primary wave (P-wave), secondary wave (S-wave), and surface waves. The presence of electrical voltage in the hypocenter directly supports the seismic electric signal (SES), further strengthening the VAN method of earthquake prediction. Our finding is supported by a plethora of research and observation devoted to seismic science. This study will find its significance if immediate action is implemented to monitor the evolution of electrochemical potential, seismic electrical signal (SES), and ionic activity in the fault zone at lithosphere as well as in the ionosphere for predicting an impending earthquake for saving human lives as early as possible.