Some Observations of the Self-Potential Effect in Geothermal Areas in Hawaii and Nevada

Abstract

High amplified self potential anomalies o positive polarity are typically found in association with geothermal areas in Hawaii. An electrokinetic process related to the upward movement of pore fluids in both the liquid and steam phases is believed to have caused these anomalies. Self potential surveys in north central Nevada produced low amplitude negative anomalies in those hot spring areas surveyed. These anomalies can also be attributed to an electrokinetic source mechanism but, because of the high conductivity of the pore waters, a mechanism related to the diffusion potential process is considered to be the more likely cause of the observed negative surface potentials.