1.21.1. Adjustment of a closed traverse

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a closing error in surveying?

   Hint

   Think about where the traverse begins and ends.

2. 2.

   What does a bearing represent?

   Hint

   Consider how angles are defined on a compass.

3. 3.

   What is the primary purpose of adjusting a closed traverse?

   • To change the starting point
   • To correct measurement errors
   • To increase measurement accuracy

   Hint

   Think about the goal of accurate surveying.

4. 4.

   True or False: The sum of interior angles in a closed traverse should equal (2n - 4) x 90°.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the relationship between the sides of the traverse.

5. 5.

   In a closed traverse with five sides, the computed angles summed to 401°. Calculate the angular error and describe how to adjust it for each angle.

   Hint

   Apply the adjustment slowly to see the overall effect.

6. 6.

   During a traverse, you find the sum of latitudes is +6.5m while departures sum up to -3.0m. If applying the Bowditch rule, calculate the adjustment for a side of 50m.

   Hint

   Break it down to the error per unit length.