Abstract:
The Zaozigou Gold Deposit is one of the largest gold deposits in the Western Qinling orogenic belt. However, as mining depth increases, exploration becomes increasingly challenging. Despite the significant deep resource potential, the spatial distribution of deep orebodies remains poorly understood. This study conducts deep metallogenic prediction and delineates prospective targets in the Zaozigou Gold Deposit through the integration of geochemistry and wide field electromagnetic method. Trace element characteristics of rock samples from a representative exploration profile indicate that As exhibits the strongest correlation with Au, followed by Sb, suggesting that arsenopyrite and stibnite are the minerals most closely associated with gold mineralization. These 2 minerals show a somewhat complementary relationship—arsenopyrite is less developed where stibnite is abundant, and vice versa. Arsenopyrite is likely the main carrier of Au, while the presence of stibnite enhances Au enrichment. Comprehensive analysis of ore-forming element distribution maps and wide field electromagnetic interpretation sections reveals a strong coupling between abrupt resistivity changes and orebody distribution. The highest potential for ore occurrence lies near resistivity discontinuities, especially at the intersections of 2 sets of resistivity break lines. Based on these results, 5 favorable exploration zones of 3 levels were delineated along the GY3 profile. First-level targets are located at intersections of major mineralized structures with pronounced lateral resistivity gradients near surface; second-level targets lie at intersections of significant lateral and vertical resistivity anomalies; and third-level targets are situated at deeper structural positions, similar to those hosting previously discovered blind orebodies (M4, M6), and are associated with moderate lateral resistivity gradients. These favorable zones are likely to extend laterally to adjacent profiles, providing guidance for delineating prospective targets in nearby sections.