Multiple regression as a method of estimating exploration potential in an area near terrace, b.c

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of multiple regression in defining target areas for detailed mineral exploration, given only general geological information and production and/or reserve data for all known deposits of a specific type in a given mining camp. An area near Terrace, B.C., for which reserve and production information for 50 mineral deposits was available, was divided into 128 4-mile by 4-mile cells by random positioning of an appropriate grid. Geological variables were measured and estimates of obtained for each cell. Cell value was stated in terms of tonnage (production and/or reserves), average per ton, and total value, the latter two in 1969 dollars.Two control areas of 35 and 28 cells, respectively, were chosen somewhat arbitrarily. Measured variables from the control areas were transformed by means of relatively simple transformations, to produce near-normal frequency distributions. Linear equations were then obtained for the control areas by stepwise multiple regression using various estimates of as the dependent variable, and geological measurements as independent variables.Equations obtained for cell data from one of the control areas appear reasonable both geologically and statistically. Consequently, the equations were applied to the remaining cells to estimate exploration potentials or values. High calculated values represent high priority cells and vice versa.