ABSTRACT

The basic shape of the earth is an oblate spheroid of revolution, the length of the equatorial axis being approximately 27 miles greater than the polar axis. Positions on the earth are defined by latitude and longitude, both being angular measurements. In geodesy, positions on the earth are given on the spheroid, which is a mathematical surface approximating the geoid. Statistics and probability are mathematical sciences used in surveying to analyze errors, design measurement systems, perform adjustments of measured data, and predict and control errors in measurements. Nautical measure also applies in hydrographic surveying. Stationing is a concept used mostly in engineering and construction surveying for centerline surveys. Matrix algebra is used in surveying for adjustments of random errors in measurements. This topic is not covered in this manual, as the practicing surveyor usually does not develop the equations for adjustments personally, but instead uses programs developed by others.