Gravity & Magnetic Surveys in Geophysical Studies
Gravity and magnetic surveys are used to investigate variations in the Earth's subsurface by measuring differences in gravitational and magnetic fields. A gravity survey detects slight changes in Earth's gravity caused by variations in rock density, helping to identify features like mineral deposits, voids, or geological structures. Magnetic surveys measure variations in the Earth's magnetic field, which occur due to the presence of magnetic minerals such as magnetite. These techniques are non-invasive and widely used in mineral exploration, oil and gas prospecting, geological mapping, and environmental studies. Combining both methods provides a more complete understanding of subsurface structures and can effectively target areas for further mineral exploration, often being a low-cost way to add value to exploration programs.
Applications
Gravity Survey Applications:
- Mineral exploration (e.g., locating dense ore bodies like iron or lead)
- Oil and gas exploration (detecting subsurface structures like salt domes)
- Geological mapping and structural interpretation
- Detection of underground voids, sinkholes, or cavities
- Hydrogeological studies (mapping aquifers and groundwater flow)
- Civil engineering (foundation analysis, tunnel detection)
- Volcano monitoring and geothermal exploration
Magnetic Survey Applications:
- Mapping magnetic mineral deposits (e.g., magnetite, pyrrhotite)
- Geological and tectonic mapping
- Oil and gas exploration (locating igneous intrusions and fault zones)
- Archaeological investigations (detecting buried structures or artifacts)
- UXO (unexploded ordnance) detection in military or post-conflict zones
- Groundwater exploration in crystalline terrains
- Environmental site assessments (locating buried tanks or drums)
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