In chain surveying, field work is limited to:
🔗 Understanding Chain Surveying
Chain surveying is the simplest method of surveying. Its fundamental principle is to create a network of triangles, as a triangle is the only geometric figure that can be plotted with just the lengths of its sides. The entire process relies on measuring distances on the ground and does not involve measuring any angles.
Because no angles are measured, the fieldwork in chain surveying is restricted exclusively to linear measurements, which are taken using a chain or tape.
📊 Comparison of Surveying Methods
Different types of surveying involve different kinds of measurements. This table clarifies the primary measurements taken in each method:
| Type of Survey | Primary Measurement Taken |
|---|---|
| Chain Survey | Linear measurement only |
| Compass Survey | Horizontal angles |
| Theodolite Survey | Horizontal & Vertical angles, Horizontal & Vertical distances |
| Levelling | Elevation of various points (Vertical distances) |
| Tachometer Survey | Horizontal distance and vertical distance |
As shown in the table, chain surveying is unique in its sole reliance on linear measurements, making it the correct answer.