Lesson Note On Surveying – Introduction

Lesson Note On Surveying – Introduction

Introduction to Surveying

Surveying is the art of determining the relative positions of different objects on the surface and below the surface of the earth by measuring the horizontal and vertical distances between them and by preparing a map to any suitable scale. Thus in discipline, the measurements are taken in the horizontal plane alone.

Levelling is the art of determining the relative vertical distances of different points on the surface of the earth. Therefore, in levelling, the measurements are taken only in the vertical plane.

Objective of surveying

The aim of surveying is to prepare a plan or map to show the relative positions of the objects on the surface of the earth. The map is drawn to some suitable scale .It shows the natural features of a country such as towns, villages, roads, railways, rivers, etc. Maps may also include details of different engineering works, such as roads, railways, irrigation, canals, etc.

Uses of surveying

Surveying may be used for the following various applications.

To prepare a topographical map which shows the hills, valleys, rivers, villages, towns, forests ,etc. of a country.

To prepare a cadastral map  showing  the boundaries of fields, houses, and other properties.

To prepare an engineering map showing details of engineering works such as roads, railways, reservoirs, irrigation canals, etc.

To prepare a military map showing the road and railway communications with different parts of a country. Such a map also shows the different strategic points important for the defence of a country.

To prepare a contour map to determine the capacity of reservoir and to find the best possible route for roads, railways, etc.

To prepare a geological map showing areas including underground resources exist.

To prepare an archeological map including places where ancient relics exist.