What is palaeomagnetism?

Palaeomagnetism is a record of the Earth’s past magnetic field. When lava is erupted at the surface, magnetic minerals, such as iron, in the lava align parallel with the Earth’s magnetic field. The magnetic minerals have a declination that points towards the magnetic north pole and an inclination related directly to latitude (at the equator inclination is 0˚ and at the North Pole inclination is 90˚). By looking at magnetised rocks we can work out. This is used to tell where the continents were in the past and how they’ve moved. This is used to construct apparent polar wander paths for continents.

Answered by Lucy A. Geology tutor

17178 Views

See similar Geology A Level tutors

Related Geology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between a Normal Fault, a Reverse Fault, and a Strike-Slip Fault?


What are the major components required for a oil accumulation to form.


What is the Bouma sequence?


Describe the sequence in which minerals crystallise in a cooling magma using Bowen's Reaction Series.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences