The Paleomagnetic Significance of Aeromagnetic Surveys of the Hawaiian Islands

Abstract

Aeromagnetic surveys of the Hawaiian Islands have revealed that the primary magnetic anomalies associated with the islands are dipole anomalies caused by the intrusive rocks of the volcanic centers and rift zones. Comparisons of the direction of magnetization indicated by the dipole anomalies with results of laboratory measurements on lavas show that in many cases the lavas possess reverse polarization while the intrusive rocks are normally polarized. These results must be taken into account when interpreting the magnetic field of submerged marine volcanic features such as seamounts and when establishing periods of reversal in the earth's magnetic field.