Application of the C-N fractal model, factor analysis and geochemical mineralization probability index (GMPI) for delineating geochemical anomalies related to a Mn-Fe deposit and associated Cu mineralization in west-central Sinai, Egypt

The west-central Sinai area includes one of the most productive manganese deposits in Egypt (Um Bogma Mn-Fe ore). explored is covered by a Carboniferous and Cambro-Ordovician sedimentary succession overlying Precambrian basement rocks. purpose this study to delineate geochemical anomalies ore related elements track their dispersion trains, which may lead discovery unknown deposits. For purpose, 143 stream sediment samples were analysed data interpreted using concentration–number (C-N) fractal model, factor analysis mineralization probability index (GMPI). Geochemical thresholds obtained from C-N scores GMPI used for constructing anomaly maps delineating probable anomalous sites. spatial distribution Mn, Cu, Co, Pb Zn was correlated Mn Cu sites whereas those Fe Cr consistent with mafic rock distributions. Factor revealed significant element associations (Cu, Zn, Pb), country composition (Fe, Cr) mobility (Cd, Zn). (Mn, Cu) delineated score confirmed more accurately constructed based on fractal-derived thresholds. Based current study, recent be suggested. Cobalt, Cd are suggested as efficient pathfinder marine A sequence Cd>Mn>Co>Pb>Zn>Cu>Cr>Fe proposed threshold patterns these elements. Supplementary material: Tables S1–S3 Figures S1 S2 available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.5463511