IN‐SITU DETERMINATION OF THE REMANENT MAGNETIC VECTOR OF TWO‐DIMENSIONAL TABULAR BODIES

Abstract

Recent studies have shown that many rocks of the earth’s crust have a substantial component of remanent magnetization. Extensive sampling is required to determine adequately the remanent vector from small samples. A field technique has been developed (and tested on model data) for the in‐situ determination of the resultant (induced+remanent) magnetic vector of bulk volumes of rock, using a combined analysis of the gravity and magnetic fields of a disturbing body (Poisson’s Theorem). The potential fields are sampled adequately at a limited expenditure of time and effort in the field by utilizing the geometry of two‐dimensional bodies. The major limitation to the analysis is the removal of regional gradients and the estimation of the base levels of anomalies. Combined gravity and magnetic surveys were conducted over six diabase bodies in the Triassic Basin of Pennsylvania. The results of these surveys indicate a resultant direction of magnetization given approximately by: declination 2° W, inclination 41 degrees below the horizon. The corresponding direction of natural remanent magnetization has a declination of 1° W and an inclination of 28 degrees. The ratio of remanent to induced magnetization for the diabase is approximately two. These results have been used to provide a better interpretation of magnetic survey data over a magnetite deposit in the Triassic Basin.