抄録
The distribution of direction of horizontal and compressive stress acted upon Japanese Islands is investigated by analysing data composed of geographical heights. For analysis of topography expressed by geographical heights, theory of buckle folding is utilized.
The distribution of stress pattern derived from topography is very consistent with the conclusions estimated from static data such as geological or geodetic ones.
The distribution of direction of maximum compressive stress derived from analysis of topography indicates into E-W in whole Japan. But in the western part of Southwest Japan, the orientation of the compressive stress is distributed in nearly N-S direction. Reason of these difference may be thought of stress state in the upper part of the crust.
Earthquake and active fault are controled under the same stress above mentioned.
The topography has been produced by the stress during Quaternary period and it continues up to present.
