Magnetic Gradiometer (Geomagnetic)

The components of the ground magnetic field (vertical, horizontal and total) or the changes in the intensity of the ground magnetic field are measured with the help of the geomagnetic method. With the help of these changes, the magnetized object and the non-magnetized object can be separated from each other. The method is sensitive to the intensity of sensitivity (due to induced magnetization variations) and to the presence of thermormanent or viscous magnetization. While permanent magnetization has virtually no effect on the identification of archaeological objects, thermal permanent magnetization is the most important factor in identifying these objects. Thus, ceramics, which are very intense in archaeological areas, acquire a magnetic feature during the heating and cooling of its raw material clay.

The most important phenomenon in geomagnetic surveys conducted within the scope of shallow geophysical studies is the changes in the magnetic properties of the soil. In this regard, many researchers have made detailed researches on the iron oxide transformation that causes changes in the magnetic properties of the soil and the oxidation process that causes it. Apart from this, iron oxide transformations that occur through bacteria reduction in the soil are also investigated. In addition, depending on the geological features, it has been revealed that some rock units undergo a fermentation due to the high iron oxide they contain and this is effective in the conversion of iron oxide. Generally, units (clay, ceramic, furnace, etc.) that have been burned as a result of human activity gain a permanent thermal magnetization.