Anomaly recognition in stream sediment geochemical exploration using factor analysis in Mesgaran area of Birjand, eastern Iran

A combination of elements is usually used in reconnaissance geochemical exploration and distribution maps are drawn to identify probable anomalies. In this study, 102 stream sediment samples from the arid environment of Mesgaran area, eastern Iran, were investigated using R-mode factor analysis. A four-factor model with a cumulative variance of 75.90% clearly indicated group associations of the elements coinciding precisely with the lithology and the mineralization present in the study area. Factor scores were calculated and mapped in order to evaluate the anomalous locations of the relevant associations across the whole area. Mineralization factor had strong positive loadings for the elements Au, Cu, Zn, and S and clearly delineated the known mineralization present in the study area.