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Composite geochemical map of anomalous copper and molybdenum distribution in the Tanacross Quadrangle, Alaska

January 1, 1976

This geochemical map delineates drainage basins in which either anomalous copper, molybdenum, or both copper and molybdenum were detected in at least one of four sample media: (A) the oxide residue (the oxalic-acid-leachable fraction) of the stream sediment, (B) the minus-80-mesh stream sediment, (C) the ash of streambank sod (mixed organic and inorganic material) collected beneath the water level, and (D) the ash of aquatic bryophytes (mosses). The anomaly patterns were derived from the point-plot maps of copper and molybdenum distribution in the individual sample media (Curtain, Day, O'Leary, Marsh, and Tripp, 1976; Curtain, Day, Carten, Marsh, and Tripp, 1976). Background data were disregarded for each of the two metals. Weakly anomalous data for all media (small black symbols) were assigned the number 2; strongly anomalous data for all media (large black symbols) were assigned the number 3. These new data were then summed or "stacked" for each metal so that all sites showing anomalous values in one or more of the sample media had a numerical rating that ranged from 2 (weakly anomalous value in one sample medium) to a possible 12 (strongly anomalous values in all four sample media). The summed data were ranked into three groups shown in the explanation. The drainage basins showing anomalous values were outlined according to these groups. As a final step the composite copper anomaly map was superimposed on that of molybdenum to give this composite copper-molybdenum map.

Publication Year 1976
Title Composite geochemical map of anomalous copper and molybdenum distribution in the Tanacross Quadrangle, Alaska
DOI 10.3133/mf767M
Authors G. C. Curtin, G.W. Day, R. M. O'Leary, S.P. Marsh, R.B. Tripp
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Miscellaneous Field Studies Map
Series Number 767
Index ID mf767M
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse