Application of the Cross Wavelet Transform to Solar Activity and Major Earthquakes Occurred in Chile

Abstract

Historical earthquakes registered in Chile (from 1900 up to 2015) with epicenters located between 17˚30'S and 56˚0'S latitude and yearly mean total sunspot number have been considered in order to evaluate a significant linkage between them. The occurrence of strong earthquakes along Chile and the sunspots activity are analyzed to inspect possible influence of solar cycles on earthquakes. The cross wavelet transform and wavelet coherence analysis were applied for sequences of sunspots and earthquakes activity. An 8 - 12 years modulation of earthquakes activity has been identified.