Resolution of 2D Wenner resistivity imaging as assessed by numerical modelling

Modelling of 2D resistivity imaging was done in order to understand the principle resolution of the technique in different geological situations, and for assessing the behaviour of the interpretation methods under controlled circumstances. The Wenner array was used throughout. The results show that the 1D approximation only provides reasonable results in environments with very gradual lateral resistivity changes, otherwise the result may be strongly misleading. Inversion using the 2D quasi-Newton technique results in adequate resolution of the structures in moderately complex environments, but the Gauss-Newton method holds a significant advantage in some complicated cases. The data density can also be of crucial importance for the resolution capability, notably of narrow structures. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.