Audio Magnetotelluric dataset for hydrogeophysical studies in Nkange, Bobonong, Gabane and Kotolaname Villages in Botswana

Published: 28 February 2024| Version 1 | DOI: 10.17632/vv654f34hb.1
Contributors:
Moidaki Moikwathai,

Description

This research study focused on investigating the hydrology of Nkange, Bobonong, Gabane, and Kotolaname villages in Botswana using the Audio Magnetotellurics (AMT) technique. The primary research hypothesis was that the AMT method could provide valuable insights into the depth and availability of groundwater resources in the study area. The AMT data in this study were collected under favorable conditions, with measurements taken every 1 meter along profiles ranging from 20 meters to 50 meters in the selected villages. The data were processed using software such as AIDU prospecting software (other software packages such as Oasis Montaj, and Surfer could be used), allowing for detailed analysis and interpretation of the geological structures and subsurface features. The instrument used demonstrated good quality, as indicated by the similarity in eigenvalues, small trace of the covariance matrix, large determinant of the covariance matrix, and well-conditioned covariance matrices. These results provided valuable insights into the data's structure and relationships, guiding further analysis by geophysicists. The processed data included geology maps, raw resistivity measurements, and 2D images illustrating resistivity values obtained through AMT measurements. The color-coded contour maps generated from the data offered insights into subsurface structures, geological formations, and potential resources like mineral deposits or groundwater aquifers. Notable findings from the data analysis included the identification of high and low resistivity zones, indicating less conductive rock formations or potential water-bearing formations. The adaptability and cost-effectiveness of the AMT technique for large-scale investigations in remote areas were highlighted, emphasizing its utility in hydrogeophysics and groundwater exploration. The dataset provided valuable information for researchers interested in studying hydrogeology in Botswana or similar regions, offering detailed insights into the methodology and results obtained from utilizing the AMT technique for hydrogeophysical investigations.

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Steps to reproduce

The data collection process involved the utilization of the Audio Magnetotellurics (AMT) technique in the study area encompassing Nkange, Bobonong, and Kotolaname villages in Botswana. Measurements were taken at regular intervals of 1 meter along profiles ranging from 20 meters to 50 meters in these selected villages.The AMT data were collected using a high-quality (ADMT-300H) instrument that demonstrated reliable performance, as indicated by the similarity in eigenvalues, small trace of the covariance matrix, large determinant of the covariance matrix, and well-conditioned covariance matrices. This ensured the accuracy and integrity of the data obtained during the fieldwork. The collected data were processed using advanced software tools such as AIDU prospecting software, Oasis Montaj, and Surfer. These software packages were employed to analyze and interpret the raw resistivity measurements, generate geology maps, and create 2D images illustrating resistivity values obtained through the AMT measurements. The processing workflows involved various steps to filter, analyze, and visualize the data, allowing for detailed exploration of subsurface structures and geological formations.

Institutions

University of Botswana

Categories

Electromagnetic Methods in Geophysics

Licence