Exploring Earth's Magnetic Mysteries Through Volcanoes
Paleomagnetism is the study of the Earth's ancient magnetic field, preserved in rocks, minerals, and sediments. By analyzing these preserved records, scientists can reconstruct the movements of tectonic plates, study the Earth's magnetic field reversal events, gain insights into past climates, and reconstruct the geologic histories of volcanoes. Duane Champion, a USGS scientist, made notable contributions to the field of paleomagnetism, enabling more accurate dating of eruptive activity and unlocking some of Pele's secrets in Hawaii.