What determines the path of the locating signal on a buried conductor?

• A. It travels along the surface of the ground.
• B. It follows the path of least resistance in the ground.
• C. It travels randomly through soil.
• D. It stays around the pipe only.

Answer: (B)

Electrical signals follow the path of least resistance in the ground. When a buried conductor is energized for locating, the current couples into the surrounding soil and spreads through paths that offer lower impedance. Soil conditions vary—moisture, mineral content, and soil composition create channels of easier flow—so the locating signal naturally moves along those low-impedance routes. This means the signal tends to travel along the buried line itself and through nearby conductive paths rather than staying exclusively at the surface, wandering randomly, or remaining only around the pipe. The result is a stronger, more detectable signal along the buried conduit where the ground provides the least resistance.