Magnetometry

Magnetometry refers to the use of magnetometers for measuring the magnetic properties of soils. The total field intensity or components of the earth's magnetic field are modified accordingly upon the presence of cultural remains in the subsurface. If there is a good magnetic contrast with respect to surrounding soil matrix, they can produce a magnetic signal (anomaly) which differs from the regional magnetism.

Magnetometry is especially successful in the detection of burned structures, workshop facilities, kilns, firehearths, and other residues resulting from heating activities.

A more detailed explanation of both the field methods and the geophysical process are provided in two downloadable pdf documents:-

Magnetometry - Field Methods (332.85 kB)

Magnetometry - Geophysical Process (41.15 kB)