Vertical gravity gradient surveys: Field results and interpretations in British Columbia, Canada

Abstract

Two vertical gravity gradient (VGG) surveys were completed by the authors during 1977 in British Columbia, Canada. The VGG method utilizes a LaCoste and Romberg model D gravity meter in conjunction with a small gradient tripod. The VGG method is practical under most field conditions using a 2 person crew and yields results precise to ±20 E or better. The VGG work indicates that the “free‐air” effect ranges between 2600–2800 E for southwestern British Columbia, which is somewhat lower than the theoretical value of 3086 E. The usefulness of the method in mining exploration is doubtful, especially in hilly or mountainous terrain where VGG values are shown to be very terrain sensitive. However, the importance of knowing the regional VGG variations is emphasized by the work over the Hat Creek coal deposit, British Columbia.