Some comments on potential field tensor data

Abstract

The measurement of potential field tensor (vector gradient) data is rapidly becoming a new tool for geophysical exploration. Data potentially provide significant improvements in resolution, noise suppression, data interpolation, and discrimination of subtle geological basement and regolith features, particularly in areas of high remanence, low latitudes, and in steep terrains. We have constructed algorithms in MATLAB for the three-dimensional inversion of potential field tensor data using Monte Carlo and Downhill Simplex approaches. We use these algorithms to invert simulated magnetic and gravity tensor data generated from simple geological structures, such as linear dykes and faults. The algorithms have a set target misfit (e.g., RMS misfit equal to one), and the final geological models are illustrated in three dimensions.