Final answer:
Paleomagnetism is used to measure polar wander by analyzing the magnetic properties of rocks and sediments. Magnetic minerals within rocks and sediments align themselves with the Earth's magnetic field at the time of deposition, allowing scientists to track the movement of Earth's magnetic field over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paleomagnetism can be used to measure polar wander by analyzing the magnetic properties of rocks and sediments. When rocks or sediments form, magnetic minerals within them align themselves with the Earth's magnetic field. By examining the orientation of these minerals, scientists can determine the direction and movement of Earth's magnetic field at the time the rocks or sediments were deposited.
For example, if a sediment core contains magnetic minerals that are aligned in a particular direction, it indicates that the sediment was deposited when Earth's magnetic field was in that same direction. By comparing the orientation of magnetic minerals in sediment cores from different locations, scientists can track the movement of the Earth's magnetic field over time, which helps in measuring polar wander.