gravity anomaly

A gravity anomaly refers to the difference between the actual gravity measured at a specific location and the gravity predicted by standard models based on Earth's general shape and mass distribution. These anomalies reveal variations in Earth's density underground—regions with denser materials like mineral deposits cause higher than expected gravity, while less dense areas like cavities or crustal thinning result in lower gravity. Studying gravity anomalies helps geologists map Earth's subsurface features, identify resource deposits, and understand geological processes.