Practical study of the errors affecting surveying operations

Abstract

The errors affecting linear measurements are so numerous, of such a variable nature and so inter -connected, that the ultimate accuracy of measuring distances is more difficult to assess than that of any other surveying operation. The greatest source of trouble is the pronounced interference of cumulative errors due principally to using an incorrect chain or tape, disregarding slòpe, poor alignment, the unevenness of the ground and the effect of sag.The care with which the measurements are made is also an important factor, and in many cases, in mine surveying particularly, the operation of measuring is left in the hands of unskilled workmen, and appreciable marking and reading errors are introduced.