Geologic interpretation of the aeromagnetic survey in the Agourai area (Central Morocco)

Abstract

The aim of this work is to interpret the geologic structures of the Agourai area (Paleozoic and Mesozoic structures) from processed magnetic maps. The detected magnetic anomalies from different standard methods used in aeromagnetism (Residual map, RTP map, horizontal gradient map) were compared to geologic structures and permit enhancing the mapping quality of some areas, and thus defining many geologic features. Existing geologic maps and geologic field studies allow interpreting some detected anomalies. It was thus possible to define the limits between the Paleozoic basement and the Mesozoic cover, to determine magnetic anomalies according to NE-SW trends compatible with the regional geologic structures and finally to detect a NE to SW-oriented fault system in the Mesozoic cover of the Agourai Plateau. Despite the reliability of this approach, some folded basaltic sills occurring in this region were not well detected, probably because of their reduced thickness.

Fusion of Remote Sensing and Applied Geophysics for Sinkholes Identification in Tabular Middle Atlas of Morocco (the Causse of El Hajeb): Impact on the Protection of Water Resource

“…These formations are slightly deformed and gently folded in Jurassic carbonate rocks with approximately 20°-50° dip values. In addition, they are reversely covered with Paleozoic basement units composed of sandstone and pelite arranged as turbidity sequences [39]. The latter surrounds the southern part of the little Causse of Agourai oriented to the NE-SW and outcrops the SW limit of the Causse of El As part of the TMA, the Causse of El Hajeb is lithostratigraphically dominated by weathered basalts, red clays and sandstones of the Triassic period, carbonate rocks (dolomite and limestone) of the Jurassic era, and basalts, clay, and alluvial deposits of the Quaternary era.…”

“…These formations are slightly deformed and gently folded in Jurassic carbonate rocks with approximately 20 • -50 • dip values. In addition, they are reversely covered with Paleozoic basement units composed of sandstone and pelite arranged as turbidity sequences [39]. The latter surrounds the southern part of the little Causse of Agourai oriented to the NE-SW and outcrops the SW limit of the Causse of El Hajeb.…”