Depth-to-Basement Estimates Using Magnetic Data of the Iraqi Southern Desert: A Statistical Approach

Abstract

Regions characterized by a considerable thickness of sedimentary cover situated on a basement complex are always interesting. These regions require accurate basement data that includes defining the locations of high thicknesses in sedimentary beds (the basins). The Southern Desert of Iraq is one of these regions that is still subject to more detailed studies concerning basement geology. Utilizing the magnetic data, we present five depth-to-basement maps using techniques that hold different theoretical assumptions and model characterizations. Further, we have obtained a sixth map using a statistical approach which is built on the selection of depth-position points that have depths confirmed from the five maps. These points are chosen along depth profiles whenever the depth curves, of the depth-to-basement maps, are met or clustered referring to close depth estimations. The derived map could be more reliable than the other five maps and may be used to suggest drilling boreholes in areas of shallow basement. The minimum estimated depth-to-basement is ~4.5 km. Moreover, the derived map shows the locations and depths of deep sedimentary basins that reach 10 km deep.