Holocene paleomagnetic record and observations on magnetic acquisition from North Atlantic sediments

Oregon State University, Corvallis OR

Investigators

Abstract

Funds support a paleomagnetic study of Holocene sediments from the northern North Atlantic, which will involve synthesis of existing data and radiocarbon dates. The study involves three objectives: (1) to use high sedimentation rate cores from the Iceland-Greenland area to refine and extend an ongoing Holocene geomagnetic reconstruction of the northern North Atlantic, (2) to use the reconstructed Holocene geomagnetic record as an accurate geomagnetic input to compare with paleomagnetic output from a series of well-dated cores, and (3) to develop an environmental magnetic synthesis of the region to further constrain sediment dynamics associated with glacial retreat and ocean circulation. Results will enhance understanding of the geodynamo and the relative effects of solar vs geomagnetic control on the cosmogenic ray load at the earth?s surface. The award will support a post-doctoral researcher, and will involved graduate and undergraduate students.