Resistivitetsmättningar

Resistivitetsmättningar, also known as electrical resistivity surveys, are geophysical methods used to investigate the subsurface electrical properties of the ground. These surveys measure the electrical resistivity of the earth's materials, which is a fundamental property indicating how strongly a material opposes the flow of electric current. Different geological materials, such as rock, soil, and groundwater, exhibit varying resistivity values based on their composition, moisture content, porosity, and the presence of conductive minerals or fluids.

The basic principle involves introducing an electric current into the ground using two electrodes and measuring the resulting electrical potential difference at two other electrodes. By varying the spacing and configuration of these electrodes, researchers can probe different depths and lateral extents of the subsurface. Common electrode arrays include the Wenner, Schlumberger, and dipole-dipole configurations, each offering different sensitivities to subsurface structures.

The data collected from resistivitetsmättningar are then processed and inverted to create models of the subsurface resistivity distribution. These models can reveal geological layering, the presence of groundwater, mineral deposits, buried structures, and contaminants. The interpretation of resistivity data is crucial for a wide range of applications, including groundwater exploration, mineral resource assessment, environmental site characterization, archaeological investigations, and engineering site investigations. Understanding the resistivity variations helps geoscientists and engineers make informed decisions about subsurface resources and potential hazards.