Errors in Surveying MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Compensating errors vary as √L

Formula

Compensating error ∝ √L; Cumulative error ∝ L

Step-by-step solution

1. Compensating errors are random and sometimes positive and sometimes negative. 2. For n measurements the total random error varies as √n, so it is proportional to √L.

Explanation

Compensating (accidental) errors partly cancel out and grow with the square root of the length chained. Cumulative errors are always in the same direction and grow in direct proportion to the length.

Shortcut

Compensating → √L. Cumulative → L.

Common mistake

Taking compensating errors as proportional to L.