A resistivity survey is a geophysical survey based on the principle that the distribution of electrical potential in the ground around a current-carrying electrode depends on the electrical resistivities and distribution of the surrounding soils and rocks. 

The field procedure is to apply an electrical direct current (DC) between two electrodes and measure the potential difference between other electrodes.This type of survey is used to detect subsurface features such as bedrock, fractures, and groundwater.

The main benefit of a 2D resistivity survey over 1D methods like VES is the simplicity. With the right equipment, the survey can be done quickly and easily. 

Additionally, this type of survey can be used to locate gravel deposits within a fine-grained soil

In addition to 2D resistivity surveys, other geophysical methods such as ground penetrating radar (GPR), multichannel analysis of the surface waves (MASW), and spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW) can be used