Resistance and Resistivity are two different things;
We can measure resistance with an "ohm meter". Two probes, connect the probes and read the meter. There are only two probes.
The circuitry in the meter includes a battery. The battery provides a voltage that creates current flow through what ever it is you want to measure the resistance of. The meter is calibrated and the battery must be at the required voltage to get a correct reading. Always "zero" the ohm meter by connecting the leads together and adjusting the "zero" adjust or if it's a digital ohm meter, you press the "zero" button. Calibration can be checked with precision resistors.
Resistivity is a measurement of a volume of earth (or other material). Resistivity requires FOUR probes. Two probes generate a current that flows through the ground. Two other probes measure voltage at specified distances (spacing). A system to measure Resistivity can be made by the "average" person!
Here's how:
You need a voltage source and two steel stakes to connect the voltage source to the ground. The amount of voltage can be 24 volts to 36 volts for starters. Place the two stakes 10 meters apart. These are the "current" electrodes (probes). Use a switch to turn the voltage on and off. The measurement electrodes should be "non-polarizing". Metal measuring probes can produce a galvanic voltage that interferes with your readings. Do a search for non-polarizing electrodes. You will need a Digital Voltmeter to measure the current. The DVM connects in series with the battery and the probes. Be sure it is set to measure "current".
Place the two measurement electrodes at equal spacing between the two current electrodes (4 meters apart). Connect a DC volt meter between the two measurement electrodes. You can get a Digital voltmeter from Radio Shack. Doesn't need to be high priced!
When the switch is turned on, you will measure a voltage between the two measure electrodes. After each measurement, the battery polarity should be reversed. The reason is because the voltage leaves the ground slightly charged.
Next, I will tell you the rest of the story to calculate Resistivity and offer advice on distance to place probes, etc.
- Geowizard