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Geophysical Exploration: Classification and Technical Applications of Prospecting Methods

Keywords Integration

1. Definition and Core Concepts of Geophysical Exploration

Geophysical Exploration, also known as geophysical prospecting, is a technique that analyzes variations in subsurface physical properties (e.g., density, magnetism, electrical conductivity, elasticity) to map the spatial distribution and characteristics of geological structures. It is widely used in mineral exploration, hydrogeology, engineering geology, and environmental studies.

Key Physical Properties and Field Sources
  • Physical Properties: Density, magnetic susceptibility, resistivity, seismic wave velocity, radioactivity, etc.
  • Geophysical Fields:
    • Natural Fields: Gravitational field, geomagnetic field, telluric currents.
    • Artificial Fields: Electric, electromagnetic, or elastic wave fields generated by artificial sources.

2. Classification of Geophysical Prospecting Methods

Based on objectives and physical principles, Exploration Geophysics methods are categorized as follows:

2.1 Classification by Physical Properties

MethodPrincipleApplications
Gravity SurveyMeasures gravity anomalies from density variationsMineral exploration, tectonic analysis
Magnetic SurveyDetects magnetic anomaliesIron ore localization, crustal studies
Electrical SurveyAnalyzes resistivity/EM field changesGroundwater detection, karst mapping
Seismic SurveyUtilizes elastic wave propagationOil exploration, foundation assessment
Radioactive SurveyDetects radiation decay signalsUranium exploration, environmental monitoring

2.2 Classification by Application

  • Resource Prospecting: Oil, coal, metal, and non-metal exploration.
  • Hydro-Engineering-Environmental Prospecting: Water resource assessment, engineering safety, pollution monitoring.
  • Deep-Earth & Marine Prospecting: Crustal structure studies, offshore resource exploration.

3. Technical Workflow and Characteristics of Key Methods

3.1 Electrical Methods

Case Study: High-density resistivity imaging identified a low-resistivity zone in a mining area, later confirmed as a copper vein through drilling.

3.2 Seismic Methods

  • Reflection Survey: Stratigraphic layering and structural mapping in oil exploration.
  • Refraction Survey: Overburden thickness measurement for engineering projects.

Technical Challenge: Low efficiency in rugged terrains; AI-enhanced inversion algorithms are needed.

4. Advantages and Limitations of Geophysical Prospecting

4.1 Advantages

  • Non-Destructive: Minimal environmental impact.
  • High Efficiency: Rapid coverage of large areas.
  • Multi-Parameter Integration: Combines methods for higher accuracy.

4.2 Limitations

  • Ambiguity: Single anomaly may correspond to multiple geological scenarios.
  • Depth Limits: Most methods are effective within 1 km depth.
  • Cost & Complexity: 3D surveys require dense equipment and computational resources.

5. Applications and Case Studies

5.1 Mineral Resource Exploration

  • Gravity & Magnetic Surveys: Combined for iron ore targeting (e.g., Pilbara, Australia).
  • EM Methods: Deep nickel-copper deposit detection (Sudbury Basin, Canada).

5.2 Hydrogeology & Engineering

  • High-Density Resistivity: Detecting dam leakage risks (Three Gorges Project, China).
  • Rayleigh Wave Testing: Identifying weak subgrade layers (I-35 Highway, USA).
  • AI & Machine Learning: Enhancing inversion speed/accuracy (e.g., neural networks).
  • Multi-Physics Integration: Combined gravity-magnetic-seismic modeling.
  • Drone & Automation: Rapid data acquisition in rugged terrains.

7. Conclusion

As a cornerstone of modern resource and environmental studies, Exploration Geophysics continues to advance through multi-method integration and technological innovation. From 2D surveys to 3D high-resolution imaging, it plays a vital role in energy, engineering, and environmental protection. Future progress will rely on AI-driven solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration.

For more information on Geophysical Exploration and its applications, visit Geotech’s product page：

Geotech Products| Geotech Instrument Co., Ltd. (geotechcn.net)

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