This paper provides an overview of recent
progress on mechanisms of metal dispersion from the buried ore deposits through the transported cover to
the surface and penetrating geochemical methods to detect the anomalies. Case studies show that, in arid and
semi-arid desert sand-covered terrains, sampling of fine-fraction (−120 mesh, b0.125 mm) clay-rich horizon
soil is cost-effective for regional geochemical surveys for sandstone-type uranium, gold, and base metal deposits