Abstract: Use of Vertical-Gradient Aeromagnetic Data for Geologic Mapping on North Slope

Jeffrey L. Friedberg

It is fairly common knowledge that vertical-gradient magnetic data are not distorted by diurnal variations of the earth's magnetic field. Magnetic disturbances are severe at high latitudes, making vertical-gradient data very useful in areas such as Alaska. A comparison of total-intensity magnetic data and vertical-gradient data collected along a test line flown six times in the presence of high diurnal activity illustrates the point.

What is not generally known is the particular utility of vertical gradient data for mapping sedimentary structures on the North Slope. Several sedimentary zones in this area are sufficiently magnetic that they produce anomalies which can be detected by a vertical gradiometer, mapped, and interpreted.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90963©1978 AAPG/SEG/SEPM Pacific Section Meeting, Sacramento, California