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The basic cycle of differential leveling can be summarized as follows:
HI (Height of Instrument) = H A (Known elevation) + BS (backsight)
H B (New elevation) = HI – FS (foresight)
Frequently, the elevations of points over a relatively long distance must be
determined. A process of measuring two or more widely separated points simply
involves several cycles or repetitions of the basic differential leveling operation.
More specific terms for this are benchmark, profile, and topographic leveling.
5.4 Benchmarks and Turning Points
Suppose it is necessary to determine the elevation of some point C from point A.
But in this case, let us assume that it is not possible to set up the level so that both
points A and C are visible from one position. The line of levels can be carried
forward towards C by establishing a convenient and temporary turning point (TP)
somewhere between A and C. The selected TP serves merely as an intermediate
reference point; it does not have to be actually set in the ground as a permanent
monument.
Fig.5.2. Temporary turning points are used to carry a line of levels from a benchmark to some
other station or benchmark; the process of differential leveling is repeated at each instrument set
up
The elevation of the turning point is computed from the first pair of BS and FS
readings. The BS is on point A, which is the end point of known elevation. A
secure and permanent point of known elevation is called a bench mark (BM); a
leveling survey should begin with a back sight on a benchmark. The BS is added to
the elevation to give the HI at the first instrument position.
The elevation of the turning point is obtained by subtracting the FS from the HI.
Once the elevation of the turning point is known, the level instrument can be
moved to another location, one closer to C but still in sight of the turning point.
Then another back sight is taken, this time on the turning point, in order to
determine the new height of instrument. Finally a foresight is taken on point C, and
its elevation is computed.
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