1. The study of the magnetic properties of rocks and minerals, used to determine the Earth's past magnetic field and the movement of continents.
Usage: Also spelled paleomagnetism in U.S. English; Technical term used in geology and geophysics

Examples

• Palaeomagnetism has provided strong evidence for continental drift and plate tectonics.
• Scientists use palaeomagnetism to map the reversals of Earth's magnetic poles over millions of years.
• The palaeomagnetism of ancient lava flows reveals the direction of the magnetic field when the rocks cooled.
• Palaeomagnetism studies help us understand how the continents have moved across the globe.
• By analyzing palaeomagnetism in sedimentary rocks, geologists can determine the age and origin of geological formations.