By measuring electric and magnetic fields, scientists can map how easily rocks conduct electricity. Different materials — water, magma, minerals, or dry rocks — have different electrical properties, allowing researchers to “see” hidden layers inside the Earth.
🔹 How Magnetotellurics Works
- Sensors (electrodes + magnetic coils) are placed on the ground
- Natural EM waves penetrate deep into Earth
- Subsurface layers modify the signals
- Data is recorded and converted into resistivity models
- Scientists generate 2D/3D images of underground structures
🔹 Why MT is Important
Magnetotellurics helps in:
- Groundwater exploration (aquifer mapping)
- Geothermal energy studies
- Mineral and ore deposit exploration
- Oil & gas basin imaging
- Understanding deep crust and tectonics
- Earthquake and fault zone studies
