Leveling

Leveling is a surveying method used to determine the elevations of points relative to a reference level, such as mean sea level. It is used to measure the height of objects above or below a reference level, such as the height of buildings, bridges, or terrain.

Leveling is performed using a surveying instrument called a level, which uses a bubble vial to determine if a line of sight is level. The surveyor sets up the level at a known elevation and sights a target at a second point. The elevation of the second point can then be determined by measuring the difference in height between the level and the target.

Leveling can be performed using two main methods: differential leveling and profile leveling. In differential leveling, the elevation of a series of points is determined by taking a series of measurements between two points and calculating the difference in elevation. In profile leveling, the elevations of a series of points along a line, such as a road or a contour line, are determined.

Leveling is an important surveying method because it is used to determine the elevations of points, which is critical information for many engineering and construction projects. Leveling is also used in mapping, to determine the elevations of features on the ground, and in geology, to study changes in the surface of the earth over time.