What does magnetometry mean?
Magnetometry is the measurement of magnetic fields, especially the Earth's, and the scientific discipline devoted to that work. It records the strength and direction of magnetic forces at different locations, allowing researchers to map variations in geological formations, buried objects, and other features that affect the magnetic field. The technique is used in geophysics, mineral exploration, archaeology, navigation, and space research. Although magnetometry is sometimes discussed alongside magnetometers, the words are not interchangeable: magnetometry is the process or field of study, while a magnetometer is the device that performs the measurement. The term comes from magnet and the Greek-derived suffix -metry, meaning measurement, and is especially common in scientific and technical writing.
nounThe branch of science concerned with measuring the strength, direction, and variation of magnetic fields, especially the Earth's magnetic field. It also refers to the technique of making such measurements.
- The measurement of magnetic-field strength, direction, and variation, especially in relation to the Earth.
- The scientific discipline that studies and applies such measurements.
"Researchers used magnetometry to identify the buried remains of a kiln and map the site's magnetic anomalies."
"The survey team checked the magnetometry results before choosing a drilling site."
"Magnetometry of the lunar surface can reveal variations in the Moon's magnetic field."
The plural is possible but uncommon; singular usage is usual in scientific writing.
"The study compared magnetometries from several locations."
Magnetometry turns invisible magnetic forces into readable maps, helping archaeologists, geologists, and explorers discover what lies beneath the ground.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of magnetometry
The word combines magnet with the suffix -metry, which comes from Greek metron, meaning “measure.” The English word magnet ultimately comes through Latin from Greek magnētis, referring to the naturally magnetized stone lodestone. In the modern term, that older sense of a magnetic material is combined with the idea of measurement, producing a name for the science of studying magnetic fields.
Related word forms
How magnetometry is actually used
Usually used in technical, scientific, archaeological, geological, and geophysical contexts. In general writing, “magnetic surveying” may be more accessible than the formal term.
Easily confused with magnetometry
Magnetometry is the science or method of measuring magnetic fields, whereas a magnetometer is the instrument used to carry out those measurements.