A comparative study of vertical geoelectrical arrays in delineating shallow subsurface properties

The geoelectrical method, particularly the vertical resistivity technique, is extensively utilized in numerous studies, especially for groundwater exploration and analysis. Predominantly, the Schlumberger (SC) array is employed in these applications. This study seeks to identify an alternative electrode configuration for delineating subsurface features and to effectively compare various electrode arrangements within the one-dimensional (1D) technique. In addition to the SC array, this research evaluates the classical Wenner Alpha (WA), Wenner Beta (WB), and dipole-dipole (DD) arrays. Over a measurement length of approximately 100 meters, the WB and SC arrays demonstrated preferable delineation of subsurface properties compared to the others. These arrays exhibited enhanced performance in signal strength, vertical sensitivity and resolution, and depth of investigation. Therefore, in addition to the SC array, the WB array serves as a viable alternative for vertical geoelectrical surveys. Nonetheless, further studies with extended measurement ranges are necessary to confirm these findings and assess their applicability in larger-scale surveys.