Record Details

Title Self-Potential Gradients, Coso Geothermal Field, California
Authors Brophy, Paul; Waff, Harve
Year 1986
Conference Geothermal Resources Council Transactions
Keywords Geophyscal Surveys; Exploration; USA; California; Inyo; Basin and Range; Coso; Magnetotelluric; Hydrothermal Alteration; Batholith; Rhyolite; Thermoelectric Coupling; Spontaneous Potential; Devil's Kitchen; Sierra Nevada Fault System; Basin and Range; Sug
Abstract Self potential gradient data obtained during a regional magnetotelluric survey in the Coso geothermal area, California have been used to aid definition of the hydrothermal system centered in the Devil's Kitchen area. The self potential response results from both volcanic and structural controls on the distribution of permeability within pre-Cenozoic basement rocks. Two distance anomalies are recognized, one related to the geothermal resource and the other to possible regional effects of the magmatic heat source. Source mechanisms for both anomalies are suggested. The gradient data correlates with previous structural and electrical interpretations of the area, suggesting a conventional self potential survey could provide meaningful data to further define resource characteristics.
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