Geochemistry

By Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

Geochemical mapping provides information about the mineral composition of different rocks.

While geologic maps can show where types of rock might be, geochemical data is needed to understand the composition of the geology.

This information helps geologists assess whether a specific grouping of rocks – often known as a unit or formation – has mineral resource potential.

To collect geochemical data, scientists go to a target location and collect rock and/or soil samples and then use sophisticated lab equipment to analyze what minerals and elements occur within the samples.