Frequency distribution of analytical values invariably complete
Although Fe is enriched in a variety of mineral deposit types, it is rarely used as a pathfinder because of the many masking effects of geological and surficial processes, and the superiority of other readily-analyzed elements
2. As an Aid to Geological MappingIndicative of iron-rich source rocks. Very low values may indicate presence of felsic rocks, esp. kaolinized intrusives.
3. As a monitor of surficial processesIn association with Mn, Fe may indicate the effects of co-precipitation in soils and stream or lake sediments, and allow the screening of false anomalies of other elements.
When both strong-acid soluble and total-Fe analyses are available, the ratio of the former to the latter may indicate relative contributions of clastic and chemical dispersion to the sample medium