Reassessment of Geophysical Investigation of Zinc(Z), Cupper (Cu) and Lead (Pb) Potential Mineralization Deposits using Aeromagnetic Data in Wase Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract: This effort aims to delineate structures responsible for exploring mineral resources in the Wase middle Benue trough area of Northcentral, Nigeria by evaluating the aeromagnetic data over that region. Oasis Montaj version 6.4 was used to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the aeromagnetic data. Techniques for Source Parameter Imaging (SPI) interpretation, including First Vertical Derivative, Analytical Signal, Upward Continuation, and Tilt Derivative, were used in the study. Analytic signal and tilt derivative maps showed different patterns of magnetic signatures independent of magnetization direction with amplitude ranging from 0.1 to 0.2nT/m and -1.3 to 1.4nT/m. They also showed qualitative interpretation applied aids enhance linear features at the expense of deep intrusive bodies like lineaments, fractures, and fault zones which trend Northeast Southwest (NE- SW) in the map of the study area. The boundaries of the geologically interesting anomalies were noticeably accentuated by the upward continuation done at 2 km. Nonetheless, this provides an approximation of the depth of the source of magnetic signatures in the area. The depth measured by SPI ranged from 103.9 to 1473.0 m. In the Eastern and Western regions of the region, respectively, shallow and deep-seated bodies are seen. The depth of the analysis was about 2000m, in conclusion, it was believed that the linear characteristics in the area that are trending northeast to southwest are possible structures for the prospecting of mineral deposits like zinc, copper, and lead