Statistical Analysis of Geological Data: v.2: Vol 2 Book

Any geologist can now afford to sharpen his thinking and improve the reliability of his conclusions through the statistical methods that are explained in this excellent hardcover volume. No previous knowledge of statistics is necessary, and only those statistical methods are introduced that pertain to geological data and geological problems. Illustrating the methods are many numerical examples, all using a minimum of mathematical terminology and most based on real geological data. The text begins with an extensive discussion of univariate statistical methods: distribution, sampling, inference, analysis of variances, and distributions and transformations. Geological sampling and variability in geological data are then considered. Upon this foundation the authors present a masterful exposition of multivariate statistical methods and some problems in applied geology. Covered here are such topics as geological trend analysis; analysis of multivariate data by methods that include multiple regression, the generalized analysis of variance, and factor analysis; ratios and variables of constant sum; exploration for natural resources; statistical methods for markedly improving estimates of grade and amount of ore; some methods of operations research for making decisions in the natural resources field; specialized geological sampling--sampling of broken rock, placer sampling, and sampling in exploration geochemistry; and gold and the lognormal distribution. Concluding the volume is a brief evaluation of electronic computers and geology. Unabridged, corrected republication in one volume of the original, two-volume (1970, 1971) edition. 197 figures. References. Appendixes. Indexes.Read More