Definition of Terms

Methods of Leveling
 DIFFERENTIAL LEVELING

Definition of Terms

1. Bench Mark (BM)

- A fix point is a fixed point of reference whose elevation is either known or assumed.
- Permanent bench marks (PBM) are those which are established at interval throughout the
country by the Philippine Coast and Geodetic Surveys (PCGS) or the Bureau of Lands.
- BM serves as a point of reference for levels in a given locality and their elevations are
determined by a precise leveling method.

2. Backsight (BS)
- A backsight is a reading taken on a rod held on a point of known or assumed elevation.
- The first rod reading taken after the instrument has been set up and levelled.

3. Foresight (FS)
- A reading taken on a rod held on a point whose elevation is to be determined is called a
foresight.

4. Turning Point (TP)

- A turning point is an intervening point between two bench marks upon which point foresight and
backsight rod readings are taken to enable a leveling operation to continue from a new instrument
position.

5. Height of Instrument
- The height of instrument ( or height of collimation ) is the elevation of the line of sight of an instrument above
or below a selected reference datum.
Example 1. Two - peg test

In the two peg-test of a dumpy level the following observations were taken.

Rod Reading Instrument set near A Instrument set near B

Pt. A 1.505 m 0.938 m
Pt. B 2.054 1.449

Requirements:
1. Determine if the line of sight is in adjustment and explain your answer.
2. If the line of sight is not in adjustment, determine the correct rod reading on A with the instrument
still set up near B.
3. Determine the error in the line of sight for the net distance AB.
Example 2. Differential Leveling

Complete the differential level notes shown below and perform the customary arithmetic check.

BM1

Solution
TP3
TP4
BM2
TP2 TP5

Formula:
Computation:

(Elev BM1) Height of Instrument (HI) = Elevation + BS

(BS on BM1)
Elevation = HI - FS
(HI 1)
(FS on TP1)

(Elev on TP1) Customary Checking;

(BS on TP1) Elevation on BM2

(HI 2) Elevation on BM1

(FS on TP2) + Backsights

(Elev on TP2) HI
(BS on TP2)
- Foresights
(HI 3)
Elevation of BM2
(FS on TP3)

(Elev on TP3)