a. An instrument for measuring magnetic intensity. In ground magnetic
prospecting, an instrument for measuring the vertical magnetic intensity;
in airborne magnetic prospecting, an instrument for measuring the total
magnetic intensity. Also, an instrument used in magnetic observatories for
measuring various components of the magnetic field of the Earth.
b. A sensitive instrument for detecting and measuring changes in the
Earth's magnetic field, used in prospecting to detect magnetic anomalies
and magnetic gradients in rock formations.
See also: airborne magnetometer
Dictionary of Mining, Mineral, and Related Terms