In the Wenner configuration of electrical resistivity method, the current lines are distributed between the electrodes in a certain pattern. The extent to which the current lines spread out from the electrodes is determined by the distance between the electrodes.
In general, the current lines will extend up to a distance of approximately one-third to one-fifth of the electrode spacing (AB). This is because the resistance of the ground increases with depth, and as the current lines penetrate deeper into the ground, they encounter higher and higher resistivity, which causes the lines to spread out and weaken.
The specific distance at which the current lines stop spreading will depend on the resistivity distribution of the ground and the depth of investigation required for the survey. Therefore, in some cases, the current lines may extend further or stop closer to the electrodes than the typical range of AB/3 to AB/5.
It is possible to use a different electrode spacing to achieve a different depth of investigation or to optimize the survey for specific subsurface features. However, this will require careful consideration of the resistivity distribution of the ground and the desired objectives of the survey.