Geophysical methods used in geothermal exploration

Abstract

Geophysical methods are one of the three main disciplines applied on the surface to explore geothermal resources, including also geology and the chemistry of thermal fluids. The most successful methods are aimed at parameters that are directly influenced by the geothermal activity, such as resistivity methods and thermal methods, and are usually referred to as direct methods. Other methods explore the physical parameters of the host rock, including magnetic properties, density and seismic velocity, and are usually referred to as indirect or structural methods. Short description is given on the most important methods, their strength and limits discussed and examples given on their use.