Earth Conductivity & Dielectric Constant

The dielectric constant and conductivity of earth vary greatly at different locations. High dielectric constant values tend to be found in areas of high conductivity (low resistance) and vice versa. Mountainous regions; areas with dry, sandy or rocky soil; cities with many large buildings; and wooded areas all tend to have low conductivities. Flat areas with wet loam tend to have the highest conductivities. Earth characteristics are important down to depths of 50 feet or more at A.M. broadcast and lower frequencies, but radio signals penetrate only 5 to 10 feet with sufficient intensities for earth characteristics to be important throughout most of the high-frequency spectrum. ©2004 Tigertek, Inc. All rights reserved.

See also:

Skin Depth in the Ground vs. Frequency for Given Soil Characteristics

Measurement of Soil Resistivity & Calculation of Earth Electrode Resistance

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