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Missouri magnetic and gravity maps and data: A web site for distribution of data

August 19, 2005

Magnetic anomalies are due to variations in the Earth's magnetic field caused by the uneven distribution of magnetic minerals (primarily magnetite) in the rocks that make up the upper part of the Earth's crust. The features and patterns of the magnetic anomalies can be used to delineate details of subsurface geology, including the locations of buried faults and magnetite-bearing rocks and the depth to the base of sedimentary basins. This information is valuable for mineral exploration, geologic mapping, and environmental studies.

The Missouri magnetic map is constructed from grids that combine information collected in 25 separate magnetic surveys conducted between 1943 and 1987. The data from these surveys are of varying quality. The design and specifications (terrain clearance, sampling rates, line spacing, and reduction procedures) varied from survey to survey depending on the purpose of the project and the technology of that time. Every attempt was made to acquire the data in digital form.

Publication Year 2005
Title Missouri magnetic and gravity maps and data: A web site for distribution of data
DOI 10.3133/ds128
Authors Robert P. Kucks, Patricia L. Hill
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Data Series
Series Number 128
Index ID ds128
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse