Geostatistical mapping of the depth to the bottom of magnetic sources and heat flow estimations in Mexico

The depth to the bottom of magnetic sources (DBMS) is widely used as a proxy for crustal thermal structures. In this study, the DBMS is calculated using the spectral analysis of aeromagnetic data for the whole territory of Mexico. By assuming the DBMS to be related to the Curie point depth, the heat flow distribution is estimated. The DBMS and heat flow maps were constructed using geostatistical simulations to quantitatively determine standard deviation as uncertainty. The results show a good agreement with the complex geologic and tectonic setting in Mexico. Small DBMS values (high heat flow) as expected appear in areas where recent volcanism occurs and at seafloor spreading zones. In contrast, large values are present in tectonically stable zones.

Automated summary

In this study, the depth to the bottom of magnetic sources (DBMS) was calculated using spectral analysis of aeromagnetic data for the entire territory of Mexico, with geostatistical simulations used to construct DBMS and heat flow maps to determine standard deviation as uncertainty. The results show good agreement with the complex geological and tectonic setting in Mexico, with small DBMS values found in areas of recent volcanism and seafloor spreading zones, and large values present in tectonically stable zones.