1.2. By successive bisections of arcs

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the purpose of setting out circular curves in civil engineering?

   Hint

   Think about construction projects.

2. 2.

   Define 'offset' in the context of setting out curves.

   Hint

   Consider how a curve relates to straight lines.

3. 3.

   What is the first step in the method of successive bisection of arcs?

   • Join endpoints
   • Calculate lengths
   • Bisect chords

   Hint

   Think about how a curve starts.

4. 4.

   True or False: Ordnates are used to measure distances perpendicular to the curve.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think of how you would position a curve with respect to a straight line.

5. 5.

   During the construction of a new bypass, engineers must set out a circular curve with a radius of 60 meters. If the angle subtended at the center is 60 degrees, calculate the total offset using the versine method.

   Hint

   Double-check your angle conversion:

6. 6.

   A road engineer encounters rocky terrain, making traditional curve setting challenging. By applying the successive bisection of arcs method and starting with a straight section of 80 meters, demonstrate the steps involved in laying out the curve.

   Hint

   Remember how precise measurements dictate the final angle and curve arrangement.