Before wrapping anode lead wires for installation, these wires should be:

The correct answer involves backfilling the anode lead wires with native soil and leaving them flexible before installation. This approach is essential because it helps protect the wires from damage and ensures proper electrical conductivity. By using native soil, you maintain compatibility with the surrounding environment, promoting better corrosion control.

The flexibility of the wires is crucial as it allows them to move slightly without breaking under strain during the backfilling process or subsequent ground movement. This flexibility can help prevent tension or stress that could lead to failure in electrical connections.

Other options do not provide the necessary conditions for safety, functionality, or longevity of the anode lead wires in an underground storage tank system. For instance, tightly coiling the wires could cause stress points or kinks that might damage the wires. Soldering the wires might create a rigid connection that could fail under pressure or movement in the ground. Leaving the wires exposed, while it may seem practical for troubleshooting, can lead to corrosion and potential electrical failures, which would defeat the purpose of the protective installation of the anodes in the first place.