Principles of exploration geochemistry

Question 1

What does a geochemist need to establish?

Answer 1

Baseline of particular area, background (‘normal range’), deviations/anomalies (which can be enrichment or depletion)

Question 2

How is background established?

Answer 2

Production of geochemical map based on sample collection and analysis so it is representative of an area

Question 3

What medias can samples come from?

Answer 3

Rocks
Fluvial Sediments
Soil
Water
Glacial Debris
Gossans
Vegetation
Animal Parts
Air

Question 4

What media is used commonly to map larger areas?

Answer 4

Fluvial sediments

Question 5

What media is used to close search areas?

Answer 5

Soils

Question 6

When are reconnaissance/regional surveys used?

Answer 6

Large areas to delineate potential sites or interest

Question 7

What are local surveys used for?

Answer 7

Provide more detail

Question 8

Why are surveys important?

Answer 8

To optimise field sampling, analytical techniques and interpretations.
Economical as cheaper than drill rigs and provide sufficient sample size enough to provide data but save on analytical costs also

Question 9

Why are orientation surveys used?

Answer 9

Establish best medium and frequency of sampling to not miss any anomolies