Is it true that the resistance around a ground rod increases dramatically when moisture freezes in the earth?

The statement is true because the resistance of a ground rod is influenced significantly by the moisture content in the surrounding soil. When the ground is saturated with moisture, the conductivity of the soil increases, allowing for lower resistance paths for electrical currents.

However, when moisture freezes, it forms ice, which is a poor conductor of electricity compared to liquid water. This freezing process reduces the soil's overall moisture content, thereby increasing resistivity. As a result, when moisture freezes in the earth around a ground rod, the resistance to ground increases dramatically. This phenomenon is critical for engineers and electricians to consider when designing grounding systems, especially in climates that experience freezing temperatures.