Primary divisions of Surveying

 Surveying is the process of measuring and mapping the physical features of the land. It is an important aspect of many different fields, including construction, engineering, and land-use planning. Surveying involves a wide range of techniques and methods, but can be broadly divided into two main categories: plane surveying and geodetic surveying.

1. Plane Surveying:

Plane surveying, also known as land surveying, is the most common type of surveying. It involves measuring and mapping small areas of land, typically less than 2-3 square miles, using simple equipment such as levels, total stations, and GPS receivers. Plane surveying is used for a variety of purposes, including determining property boundaries, creating topographic maps, and planning construction projects.

Plane surveying assumes that the surface of the earth is flat and that all measurements are made in two dimensions. This means that the curvature of the earth is not taken into account, which can lead to small errors over large distances. However, for small-scale projects, these errors are usually negligible.

2. Geodetic Surveying:

Geodetic surveying, also known as global surveying, is used to measure and map large areas of the earth's surface, typically more than 2-3 square miles. This type of surveying takes into account the curvature of the earth and is used to create accurate maps of the earth's surface. Geodetic surveying is used for a variety of purposes, including mapping the earth's magnetic field, monitoring tectonic plate movements, and surveying large construction projects such as dams and bridges.

Geodetic surveying involves more sophisticated equipment than plane surveying, such as satellite receivers and laser scanners. The accuracy of geodetic surveying is much higher than plane surveying, with errors of less than 1 inch per mile.

In conclusion, surveying is an important aspect of many different fields and involves a wide range of techniques and methods. By understanding the primary divisions of surveying, plane surveying and geodetic surveying, you can better understand how surveying is used and how it can benefit your project or profession.