Statistics applied to facts and concepts in geoscience

Abstract

This is a brief review of alternative methods of problem-solving in geoscience. Special attention is given to applications of the theory of probability, mathematical statistics, computers and artificial intelligence. It is desirable to maintain a clear-cut distinction between reliable facts which can be stored in data banks and concepts which should be incorporated in the specifications of statistical models designed for specific purposes. Two illustrative examples deal with the probability of occurrence of mineral deposits. This probability is conditional upon the occurrences of geological features systematically quantified and processed for large regions.