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GLOSSARY / Survey & data

Geophysical anomaly

A response in survey data that differs from the expected background. It may justify interpretation or further investigation, depending on the survey’s objectives.

THE RRS GLOSSARY

Why it matters to a project

Anomalies can have different causes. The survey report should explain the method, limitations and reasoning behind any target list instead of treating every response as confirmed ordnance.

PROJECT EXAMPLE

An interpreted survey produces a list of locations for a separately scoped investigation.

A useful distinction

An anomaly is not a confirmed explosive item.

Questions to ask when it appears in a scope

  • What area, activity and decision does this term refer to?
  • What evidence or output will the project team receive?
  • What limitations need to be carried into the next stage?

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