Subsurface Faults and Magma Controls on the Jinchuan Ni-Cu Sulfide Deposit: Constraints from Magnetotelluric Data

The Jinchuan Ni-Cu sulfide deposit in the Longshoushan terrane is among the world’s largest magmatic sulfide deposits. This study uses magnetotelluric (MT) survey data imaging combined with previous geophysical data to investigate Segment III of the deposit. The image of MT data reveals a significant low-resistivity anomaly ~200 m beneath Segment III, aligning with known ore bodies, and an additional anomaly to the north, indicating further exploration potential. These findings highlight the deep-seated intrusions and their connection to surface mineralization, emphasizing the critical role of ultramafic rock encapsulation and fault-controlled morphology in ore body formation. The newly identified northern anomaly, resembling the Segment III ore bodies, suggests a promising target for future exploration. Integrating MT surveys with other geophysical methods enhances the understanding of subsurface structures and mineralization, providing a robust framework for discovering concealed mineral deposits and improving exploration efficiency.