Geochemical prospecting involves exploration for mineral deposits by chemically analyzing rock samples, soil, or vegetation, for trace amounts of an ore mineral. It is often used where geologic and geophysical methods have been ineffective. When interpreted properly, it is useful in indicating or confirming target areas.

Geochemical prospecting has been used to find:

• sulfides of copper, lead, zinc, nickel, and molybdenum

And to a lesser extent:

• uranium, diamonds, tungsten, tin, mercury, gold, and silver minerals.

Figure: Some characteristics of geochemical prospecting.