An overview of palaeomagnetic chronology with special reference to the South African hominid sites
Date
1980
Authors
McFadden, P. L.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Bernard Price Institute for Palaeontological Research
Abstract
The phenomena of secular variation, polarity reversals and apparent polar wander are discussed. The calibration of each of these phenomena for use in palaeomagnetic chronology is
outlined and the use of each of these calibrated scales for dating is briefly explained. A successful
application of the polarity reversal dating technique is presented as an example of the
potential for palaeomagnetic chronology in South Africa. In this example it is shown that the
age of the important Member 3 in Makapan is about 3 My. It is concluded that palaeomagnetic
chronology has a vast potential in South Africa ; a palaeomagnetic laboratory specifically
oriented to chronological problems would be extremely valuable.
Description
Main article
Keywords
palaeomagnetic; hominid sites; South Africa
Citation
None