A Geochemical Approach to Delineate Target Areas for Copper Mineralization Around Kesarpur in Northern Orissa, India

Geochemical maps for copper, based on 355 samples comprising B horizon soils and ferruginous nodular concretions collected from a depth of 0.3 to 1.5 m along predetermined traverse lines in the test areas,have brought out anomaly zones of restricted strike lengths delineating the possible trend of sub-surface mineralization. Cumulative probability plots have indicated bimodal density distribution for the Dudhiasol West Block and polymodal complex distribution for the Kesarpur Block. Critical assessment of threshold values of partitioned populations on the probability plots, helped in suggesting priority areas for follow-up exploration. Geophysical prospecting carried out in these areas has broadly corroborated the geochemical data. Subsequent drilling has substantiated much of the geochemical findings.