Optimizing depth estimates from magnetic anomalies using spatial analysis tools

•GIS analysis complements the tilt–depth technique.•Continuous depth solutions.•Interpolation of magnetic depth values.

We offer a methodology to analyze the spatial and statistical properties of the tilt derivative of magnetic anomalies, thus facilitating the mapping of the location and depth of concealed magnetic sources. This methodology uses commonly available graphical information system (GIS) software to estimate and interpolate horizontal distances between key attributes of the tilt derivative, which then are used to estimate depth and location of causative bodies. Application of the method to synthetic data illustrates its reliability to determine depths to magnetic contacts. We also achieved consistent depth results using real data from the northwest portion of the Paraná Basin, Brazil, where magnetic anomaly interpretations are complicated by low geomagnetic inclinations and rocks with remanent magnetization. The tilt-derivative method provides more continuous and higher resolution contact information than the 3D Euler deconvolution technique.