Paleomagnetism

Paleomagnetism refers to the Earth's magnetic field and its variability through time. This includes the pattern of directional and intensity (secular) variation during intervals of stable magnetic field polarity such as today, the evidence for anomalous excursions, the sequence of magnetic field reversals, and the field geometry during transitions.

Quaternary paleoclimate/paleoceanography: Paleomagnetism/rock magnetism can provide unique perspectives onThe quantification and timing of continental and oceanographic environmental/climatic variability. The pattern of directional secular variation can be used regionally to date Quaternary sediment sequences. The pattern of intensity variation and ocurrances of excursions can provide additional isochrons on a global scale. These dating/correlation tools can often dramatically improve the time resolution of sediment sequences and permit more detailed studies of the paleoclimatic and paleoceanographic variability recorded within them. By understanding the rock magnetic variability in sediments, one can estimate the role of physical and chemical environmental factors in the sediment magnetizations and estimate their paleoclimatic/paleoceanographic causes.

Time-series analysis: Time series analysis and related linear or nonlinear data processing techniques are necessary for considering the broad range of paleomagnetic field variation and paleoclimatic/paleoenvironmental variability that has occurred in the geologic past. Specific techniques include 1-D and 2-D spectral analysis, scalar and vector statistical analyses, mathematical simulation modeling, vector waveform analysis, and both linear and nonlinear (dynamical) systems.