The distance between two brass rings in a surveyor’s chain is

Discussion - MCQs on Chain Surveying (5) - Distance Between Rings

The distance between two brass rings in a surveyor's chain is:

A. 20 cm
B. 40 cm
C. 1 m
D. 50 cm
Correct Answer: A. 20 cm

🎯 Understanding the Question

In any type of surveying chain, the "distance between two brass rings" refers to the length of a single, individual link. The small brass rings connect the straight wire portions to form a complete link.

🔬 Analysis of Chain Types

To find the correct answer, we need to look at the standard specifications for common surveying chains:

  • Metric Chain: This is the modern standard. The length of one link is precisely 20 cm (or 0.2 meters).
  • Gunter's Chain (or Surveyor's Chain): This historical chain is 66 feet long and has 100 links. The length of one link is calculated as 66 ft / 100 links = 0.66 ft. Converting this to centimeters gives approximately 20.1 cm.

Both of the most common chain types have a link length that is either exactly or very close to 20 cm, making it the only logical choice among the options.

🖼️ Visual Aid

The image below shows the typical construction of a chain, highlighting the individual links and connecting rings.

Construction of a surveyor's chain link

📊 Summary of Common Surveying Chains

Chain Type Total Length Number of Links Length of One Link
Metric Chain 20 m or 30 m 100 or 150 20 cm
Gunter's / Surveyor's 66 ft 100 ~20.1 cm (0.66 ft)
Engineer's Chain 100 ft 100 ~30.5 cm (1 ft)
Revenue Chain 33 ft 16 ~62.9 cm (2.06 ft)
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