THE APPLICATION OF AUDIO‐FREQUENCY MAGNETOTELLURICS (AMT) TO MINERAL EXPLORATION

Abstract

With the use of frequencies in the audio range, the magnetotelluric method can determine subsurface electrical conductivity structure at depths appropriate for mineral exploration. In 1963, Kennecott initiated a program to determine the feasibility of this technique as a geophysical tool. As opposed to the broad‐band recording and subsequent Fourier analysis commonly utilized in low‐frequency magnetotelluric studies, Kennecott’s AMT instrumentation is a multifrequency, narrow‐band, analog system which yields scalar apparent resistivities. Since the natural source fields at frequencies from 10 hz to about 20 khz are due to thunderstorm energy, the AMT technique is most useful in summertime operation, as is Afmag. Considerable experience in the field has led to useful applications in several problems: (a) uniform sedimentary columns, (b) high‐resistivity cover, and (c) massive, layered sulfides. Although of predictably little assistance in problems relating to disseminated mineralization exploration, deep targets, or areas with low‐resistivity cover, the AMT technique can be useful in defining sharp lateral contrasts in resistivity and in “seeing” through high‐resistivity cover.