Traverse Surveying MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Bowditch's Rule distributes the total closing error in a closed traverse in proportion to the length of each side.

Formula

Correction to latitude = Total error in latitude × (Length of that side / Perimeter of traverse)

Step-by-step solution

1. In a closed traverse survey, the sum of latitudes should ideally be zero. 2. If there is a closing error, we must balance or correct the traverse. 3. Bowditch's Rule assumes that errors in linear measurements are proportional to √L and angular measurements are proportional to 1/√L. 4. According to this rule, the correction to latitude of any side is directly proportional to the length of that side. 5. Therefore, Correction to latitude = Error in latitude × (Length of that side / Perimeter). Answer: (C) Error in latitude x (length of that side / perimeter)

Explanation

Bowditch's Rule is used to balance a closed traverse when linear and angular measurements have equal precision. It calculates correction by multiplying total error with the ratio of individual side length to total perimeter.

Why the other options are wrong

A: Addition of error and ratio is mathematically incorrect. B: Subtraction of error and ratio is mathematically incorrect. D: Division of error by ratio is mathematically incorrect.

Shortcut

Remember: Bowditch rule uses length ratio! Correction = Total Error × (Side Length / Total Perimeter).

Common mistake

Students often confuse Bowditch's Rule with Transit Rule. Transit rule relies on latitudes and departures directly, not on side lengths.