A discussion of structural and thermal control of magnetic anomalies on the mid-Norwegian margin

We discuss the correlation between the depth extent of magnetic sources, the Curie temperature depth and crustal structures on the mid-Norwegian margin. Spectral methods can be used to estimate the depth extent of magnetic sources, even if the bottom is located in the lower crust, however, only with limited resolution. The bottom of the magnetic surfaces is often regarded to represent the depth to the Curie isotherm. However, comparison with a 3D model based on the interpretation of potential field and seismic reflection data and thermal modelling shows that the depth extent of the magnetic sources is merely controlled by the overall geometry of the crystalline crust and not the temperature distribution. The observed changes in the magnetic field between the inner and outer part of the mid-Norwegian margin appears not to reflect, as previously assumed, the depth to the Curie temperature but the geometry of the basement and lower crust. Our 3D model of the mid-Norwegian margin reveals a basement configuration that involves a basement with different petrophysical properties, which can be connected with lithological basement units of onshore Norway.