CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

Chapter 3 |
Measurement of Vertical Distances and
Leveling Methods

MODULE 8:
Leveling Methods

Overview
This module provides a thorough discussion on the terms and procedures
undertaken in different leveling methods. These methods include differential
leveling, profile leveling, trigonometric leveling, and inverse leveling.
Objective
To understand the step-by-step procedures in undertaking various leveling
methods.
To determine the appropriate method to be used in a specific scenario.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

8.1 Differential Leveling

Differential leveling is the process of determining the difference in elevation between

two or more points some distance apart. It requires a series of set ups of the
instrument along a general route, and for each set up, a rod reading back to the point
of known elevation and forward to a point of unknown elevation are taken. The basic
equipment used in differential leveling instrument include a graduated leveling rod,
and a leveling instrument such as dumpy level, automatic level, or an engineer’s
transit. These leveling instruments are used to establish a horizontal line of sight and
to measure the vertical distance between the line of sight and the point on which the
rod is held.

Definition of Terms

1. Bench Mark (BM)

A benchmark is a fixed point or reference whose elevation is either known or

assumed. They may be permanent or temporary. Permanent bench marks (PBM) are
those which are established at intervals throughout the country by the Philippine
Coast and Geodetic Surveys (PCGS) or the Bureau of Lands. They serve as points of
reference for levels in a given locality and their elevations are determined by precise
leveling methods. Permanent PCGS benchmarks consist of bronze or brass disks
which are permanently set in concrete foundations. They are marked with the
elevation above sea level, the year it was established, and its reference number.
Temporary bench marks (TBM) are those set up by the surveyor for his own use in a
particular surveying project and may have assumed elevations. They should be stable
and semi-permanent marks such as a wooden peg set in concrete, a nail or spike
driven into a tree, an X-mark on a bridge abutment, a notch cut out in the root of the
tree, or the top of a fire hydrant.

It is important that bench marks are easily recognized and located where they will
have the smallest likelihood of being disturbed. Accurate records should be kept for
each bench mark since they may be frequently referred to later by other surveyors.
They should be thoroughly described in field notes. In some areas, bench marks may
have to be re-established where their position and elevation have been disturbed by
earth movements such as those caused by slides, earthquakes, floods, engineering
constructions, and mining operations.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

2. Backsight (BS)

A backsight is reading taken on a rod held on a point of known or assumed elevation.

It is a measure of the vertical distance from the established line of sight to the point
sighted and is always the first rod reading taken after the instrument has been set up
and leveled. Backsights are frequently reffered to as plus (+S) sights since they are
added to the elevation of points being sighted to determine the height of the
instrument. The backsight does not necessarily mean that it is always a sight taken
backward.

3. Foresight (FS)

A reading taken on a rod held on a point whose elevation is to be determined is called

a foresight. It is represented as a vertical distance from the line of sight of the
instrument to the point observed. Since the reading for a foresight is subtracted from
the height of the instrument to determine the elevation of the point which the rod is
held, a foresight is usually referred to as a minus (-S) sight. Foresights are often taken
forward or in the general direction in which the leveling work proceeds. It is usually
the last reading taken before the leveling instrument is moved to another location.

4. Backsight Distance (BSD)

The backsight distance is measured from the center of the instrument to the rod on
which a backsight is taken.

5. Foresight Distance (FSD)

The horizontal distance from the center of the instrument to the rod on which a
foresight is taken is referred to as the foresight distance. Its length is usually made
nearly equal to its corresponding backsight distance.

6. 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. It is also sometimes referred to as a change
point (CP), and is established as far away as practical in the general direction of the
line of levels. In order that the rod can be removed and later positioned back in the
same place as many times as may be necessary, the turning point should be located

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

on some stable object. For this purpose, a rock, a stake driven into the ground, or a
paint mark on a concrete pavement is preferable. Turning points are usually
numbered consecutively and it is not necessary to described them in detail since they
are only used to carry forward a line of levels.

7. Height of Instrument (HI)

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. It is determined by
adding the rod reading on the backsight to the elevation of the point on which the
sight is taken.

Procedure of Differential Leveling

The procedure followed in determining the difference in elevation between two

points is illustrated in figure, in which a line of levels is run from BMa to BMb. There
should be at least two persons to undertake differential leveling the rodman who
carries and holds the rod, and the instrumentman who set up the level and
determines the required rod readings. The instrumentman can record the data in a
field notebook or a third person may be employed as a recorder. If a bigger leveling
party could be formed, a chief of party, a pacer, an axeman, and utilitymen may be
added to complete the team.

The leveling instrument is set up at any convenient location along the level route and
a backsight is taken on a leveling rod held vertically on BMa. The backsight reading
added to the known or assumed elevation of the initial bench mark gives the height
of the instrument above datum or:

𝐻𝐼 = 𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐵𝑀𝑎 + 𝐵𝑆
The rodman moves forward along the general direction of BMb and holds the rod at
a convenient turning point (TP1). The instrumentman takes a foresight on the rod.
This foresight reading subtracted from the height of instrument gives the elevation
above datum of the turning point or:

𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑇𝑃1 = 𝐻𝐼 − 𝐹𝑆
The level is then transferred and set up at another convenient location beyond TP1,
but still in the general direction of BMb. The exact location at which the level is set up
is of little importance. The more important thing to consider is that the level is set up
at a location where backsight and foresight rod readings can be made. A backsight is
then taken on TP1 to establish a new height of instrument (HI2). The rodman finally
moves forward to the location of BMb and a foresight is taken on the rod held on it.
Since the new HI has already been determined, the elevation of BMb is computed by
subtracting the foresight reading from the height of instrument.

If the terminal point (BMb) is still some distance away such that more turning points
have to be established before it could be foresighted, the procedure of reading a
backsight, the rodman moving ahead to establish another turning point, and reading
a foresight is repeated. This is done as many times as necessary until the elevation of
BMb is finally obtained.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

Leveling Notes

It is important that all data gathered in differential leveling work be properly

recorded in a special field notebook ruled with suitable lines. The left-hand page is
usually divided into columns for observed and computed data and the right-hand
page is reserved for sketches and descriptive notes or remarks concerning
benchmarks and turning points which may be useful in subsequent field operations.
The standard column headings on the left-hand page are: Station, Backsight, Height
of Instrument, Foresight, and the Elevation. Accepted abbreviations are normally
used. It must be remembered that the station is not the point occupied by the leveling
instrument, but it is the point on which the rod is held. The following additional
information may also be indicated on the upper portion of the right-hand page; date
and time of survey, average temperature observed, and weather condition prevailing
during the survey. For student field notes, the lab exercise number and the group
number is usually included. It is customary to portray the arithmetic check at the foot
of each page of level notes, and the signature of the chief of party must also be
indicated to authenticate the field notes.

Checking Level Notes

The calculation in differential leveling work is limited only to determining height of

instrument and the elevation of stations or points. As pointed out earlier in the
procedure of differential leveling, there are only two simple steps performed in the
computation. First, the backsight reading is added to the elevation of the benchmark
to determine the height of the instrument; and second, the foresight reading is
subtracted from the height of instrument to determine the elevation of the point
foresighted.

A check on the addition and subtraction in each step is made by adding separately the
backsight and foresight readings. The difference between the two sums should equal
the difference in elevation between the first and last stations unless a mistake is made
in arithmetic. An agreement between these two quantities that the process of adding
and subtracting has been done correctly. It does not, however, provide a check against
mistakes in observing and recording data or whether the field work was performed

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CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

satisfactorily. The rod can be misread, or an observed reading recorded incorrectly

without affecting the arithmetic check.

It is customary among surveyors to always make an arithmetic check on all data

which are calculated and recorded in the field notebook. Level notes are considered
incomplete unless the check is properly indicated. The arithmetic check should be
done before the survey party leaves the site. It is only by suing correct field
procedures and giving careful attention to the work being undertaken that mistakes
and errors can be prevented.

SAMPLE PROBLEMS:
E8-1 DIFFERENTIAL LEVELING. Complete the differential level notes shown below
and perform the customary arithmetic check.
Level Notes from BM1 to BM4:
STA BS HI FS ELEV
BM1 1.256 127.133 m
TP1 1.116 1.885
TP2 1.228 1.527
BM2 1.189 2.246
BM3 1.070 2.017
TP3 1.831 2.656
BM4 2.765

Solution
a) Level Route from BM1 to TP2:

b) Level Route from TP2 to BM2:

c) Level Route from BM3 to BM4:

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

Determining Backsight and Foresight Sums:

∑ 𝐵𝑆 = 1.256 + 1.116 + 1.228 + 1.189 + 1.070 + 1.831 = +7.690 𝑚

∑ 𝐹𝑆 = −(1.886 + 1.527 + 2.246 + 2.017 + 2.656 + 2.765) = −13.097 𝑚

STA BS HI FS ELEV
BM1 1.256 128.389 127.133 m
TP1 1.116 127.619 1.885 126.503 m
TP2 1.228 127.320 1.527 126.092 m
BM2 1.189 126.263 2.246 125.074 m
BM3 1.070 125.316 2.017 124.246 m
TP3 1.831 124.491 2.656 122.660 m
BM4 2.765 121.726 m

Arithmetic Check:
127.133 𝑚 + 7.690 𝑚 − 13.097 𝑚 = 𝟏𝟐𝟏. 𝟕𝟐𝟔 𝒎
E8-2 DIFFERENTIAL LEVELING. The accompanying schematic arrangement of lines
portray a differential level route. The values indicated represent backsight and
foresight readings taken at different points as labeled. Prepare and complete
differential level notes for the information shown and show the customary arithmetic
check.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

Solution:

STA BS HI FS ELEV
BM1 2.35 359.00 356.65 m
TP1 1.37 357.09 3.28 355.72 m
TP2 3.08 358.13 2.04 355.05 m
TP3 1.54 356.06 3.61 354.52 m
TP4 0.85 353.22 3.69 352.37 m
BM2 3.07 350.15 m
Total +9.10 -15.69

Arithmetic Check:
356.65 + 9.19 − 15.69 = 𝟑𝟓𝟎. 𝟏𝟓 𝒎
8.2 Profile Leveling
The process of determining differences in elevation along a fixed line at designed
short measured intervals is referred to as profile levelling. The fieldwork involved is
identical to differential levelling since it also requires the establishment of turning
points on which foresight and backsight readings are taken before the terminal point
is reached. The main difference between these two methods of levelling lies in the
number of foresights taken from each setup of the instrument. In differential levelling
only one foresight is necessary whereas in profile levelling any number of foresights
can be taken. In profile levelling, a series of benchmarks intended for use at a later
date are also set up.
Profile level routes may be run as a single straight line or as a series of straight lines
connected by curves. Intermediate foresights are taken where necessary to portray
accurately the existing ground surface along the route surveyed. For most
engineering projects, the profile is usually taken along the centerline with the level
set up a convenient distance away from it so that sights of more uniform lengths can
be obtained. Upon completion of profile levelling work, it is important to check (while
still in the field) the gathered before any plotting is made. A check may be made by
trying into a previously established benchmark or by running a line of differential
levels back to the starting point.
Definition of Terms
1. Profile

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The profile is a curved line which graphically portrays the intersection of a vertical
plane with the surface of the earth. It depicts ground elevations of selected critical
points along a surveyed line and the horizontal distances between these points.
2. Stationing
A numerical designation given in terms of horizontal distance any point along a
profile line is away from the starting point. Each stake used is marked with its station
and plus.
3. Intermediate Foresights
These sights, which are also known as ground rod readings, are taken along the
centerline of the proposed project to provide an accurate representation of the
ground surface. Intermediate foresights are observed at regular intervals and at
points where sudden changes in elevation occur.
4. Full Stations
Are points which are established along the profile level route at uniformly measured
distances. These points are usually made in multiples of 100, 50, 30, 20, or 10 meters.
5. Plus Stations
Any other intermediate point established along a profile level route which is not
designated as a full station is called a plus station. These points are taken at breaks in
the ground surface slope and at critical points such as the intended location of
culverts, bridges, and other structures.
6. Vertical Exaggeration
It’s a process of drawing the vertical scale for a profile much larger than the horizontal
scale in order to accentuate the differences in elevation.
7. Profile Paper
A special heavy grade graphing paper used for plotting profiles. The paper has
horizontal and vertical lines drawn in green, blue, or orange which are spaced
accordingly to represent certain distances to the horizontal and vertical axis.
Procedure of Profile Leveling
Before profile levels are run, the line joining the initial and terminal points must first
be established. A transit and tape survey are undertaken starting at the beginning of
the line which is designated as station 0+00. The length of the level route is measured,
and stakes are set at each full station to define the path to be followed.
The instrument is set up at a convenient location and a backsight is taken on a
reference benchmark near the initial point to determine the height of the instrument.
It is preferable to set up the level about 20 meters away from the level route when
readings must be taken on a series of intermediate points. A suitable setup should be
selected such that the rod is visible through the telescope and rod readings could be
made more easily. A series of intermediate foresights are next taken along the center
line to determine elevations of ground points. This is done without transferring the
instrument. By the time it is no longer possible to continue with the foresight readings
on intermediate point from the instrument position, a turning point is established.

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CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

This permits the instrument to be moved to a new location which will allow additional
foresights to be taken forward of the line or just to continue the line of levels.
Intermediate foresights readings should be taken at regular intervals of 10 to 30
meters along the centerline, and at points foresighted should provide data which will
portray accurately the configuration of the terrain along the level route.
Benchmarks may be established ahead during the execution of a transit and tape
survey or at the same time profile levelling is undertaken. Usually, benchmarks are
spaced much farther apart when the differences in elevation along the level route are
not so large. The spacing should be made closer where the differences in elevation is
quite considerable. It is important that benchmarks be so located that they will not be
disturbed or obliterated during any construction that may be undertaken later. Also,
since benchmarks are intended to be used as reference points for determining
differences in elevation, it is important that their elevations are accurately
determined and subsequently verified as well.
Stationing
Before levels are taken, the line along which the profile is required must be properly
marked by stakes on the ground. The choice of intervals between stakes will depend
largely on the desired accuracy and type of terrain to be traversed. Usually, stakes
which mark full stations are spaced at 100-m intervals. Spacing between plus stations
could not be regularly fixed as they depend on breaks in the slope of the ground
surface and on the location of critical points where structures are to be positioned
along or transverse to the level route.
Stationing is used to indicate the distance of any ground stake from the beginning
point of the level route. It is carried continuously along the route. In the case of a
highway or a railroad, the stationing is also carried around the curves. A station and
a plus are adapted to mark each stake. For example, full stations which are 100, 200,
400, and 1300 meters from the beginning point (Sta 0+00) of the profile route are
designated as stations 1+00, 2+00, 4+00, and 13+00, respectively. Other intermediate
points are designated as plus stations. Thus, a stake that is 1,650 meters from the
point of beginning is marked as 16+50, and one set 228.35 m from the same starting
point is marked as 2+28.35.
If the distance from the point of beginning of any full or plus station is known, its
stationing can be readily calculated. For example, a point that is 172.45 m beyond
station 5+50 is 550+172.45 = 722.45 m from station 0+00, and the point is marked as
7+22.45 m. The horizontal distance between any two stations may also be
determined. Thus, if the given stationing of two points is 18+15.65 and 24+04.73, the
distance between the two stations is 2404.7301815.65 = 589.08 m.
Profile Level Notes
The level notes kept for profile levelling are similar to those for differential levelling
except for the addition of a separate column for intermediate foresights (IFS) which
is used for recording side shots or ground sights. Although a single column could be
used to record foresight and intermediate foresight readings, many surveyors prefer
to record intermediate foresights separately. This is done to allow easier reading and
interpreting of the notes. A typical set of profile level notes is shown in figure.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

On the left-hand page, all the six columns of the standard form of level notes are used.
The column headings indicated include the following: Station, Backsight, Foresight,
Intermediate Foresight, and Elevation. These column headings are usually arranged
in the sequence as given. Accepted abbreviations are normally used to identify each
column. Remarks or concise descriptions for each bench mark, station, and other
relevant information are indicated on the right-hand page. Simple sketches which will
better explain the levelling work performed may also be shown with the remark.
The process of computing heights of instrument and elevation of points and stations
along a profile level route is exactly the same as in differential leveling. Such
computations should be made on the level notebook as the survey progresses. From
a recorded set of profile level notes, differences in elevation between points and
stations along the level route can be determined. For instance, the difference between
the sum of all backsights and the sum of all foresights is equal to the error of closure,
or equal to the difference in elevation between the initial bench mark and the final
point. Also, the intermediate foresight reading subtracted from the height of
instrument gives the ground elevation of a plus station. And at one setup of the
instrument, the difference between the elevation of any two points is equal to the
difference between the foresights taken on these points.
It is customary to always show an arithmetic check for each set of profile level notes.
As done in differential leveling, the sum of all backsight reading is added to the
elevation of the initial or reference bench mark. From the sum of these two quantities,
the sum of all foresight readings is then subtracted. If the resulting difference is equal
to the elevation of the final bench mark or the last station indicated in the level notes,
the additions and subtractions performed are assumed to have been done correctly.
These computations are shown at the lower portion of the level notes.
In most instances, backsight and foresight readings on established benchmarks are
recorded to the nearest hundredth of a meter (cm). The intermediate foresights are
recorded to the tenths of a meter (dm) since they are used only for plotting the profile
and have no relation to the determination of benchmark elevations.
Plotting Profiles
The plotted profile should give an accurate and useful representation of the existing
ground configurations. It is plotted on a linear scale which shows the correct length

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of the surveyed line. The profile is plotted as a curve in which the distance of each
station from the point of beginning is shown on the abscissa and the elevation of each
station is plotted on the ordinate. As shown in figure a typical profile of the center line
of a road.

They may be used to determine depths of cut and fill such as on proposed roads and
railroads. Profiles are also used when designing the most economical grade location
and planning out grade crossings. They are also referred to when locating and
positioning tunnels, pipelines, irrigation, canals, and sewer lines.
Profiles are plotted on a special graph paper called a profile sheet. It has horizontal
and vertical lines printed in blue, green, or orange to represent distances both
horizontally and vertically. The profile is plotted by using the lines of the profile sheet
as scale. It is first drawn in pencil and inked later to a finished copy. Heavy grade
paper is used if only a single copy of the profile is needed. However, if additional
copies of the profile are required either tracing paper or tracing cloth is used to allow
reproduction by blue or white prints.
The elevations of ground points on the profile are usually plotted and connected
freehand with a smooth heavy line. The resulting profile is expected to be a better and
more accurate representation of actual ground irregularities than by using straight
lines to connect ground points. It should include all other pertinent information which
are likely ot be required during the actual phase of construction. The following
information should be indicated:
a) Plotting Scales
The horizontal and vertical scales used in plotting the profile should be properly
identified.
b) Stationing
The full stations along the level route should be indicated to portray the overall linear
length of the line.
c) Reference Points

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Important reference points and other ground points which need to be emphasized or
pointed out should easily seen.
d) Marginal Information
Any other valuable information which should explain the profile better or in detail
should be indicated. Such information may include the following: a title to identify the
leveling operation, location of the profile taken, what the profile represents, the date
it was surveyed, names of the survey party members, and the name of the draftsman
who plotted the profile.
To portray the ground profile, a certain balance between the horizontal and vertical
scale is necessary. The vertical scale is always made much larger than the horizontal
scale to accentuate or make more pronounced the differences in elevation. This
referred to as vertical exaggeration. Usually, a ratio of 10:1 is used. The ratio of
exaggeration depends upon:
a) Use of the Profile
If a highly accurate representation of vertical dimensions is required, the vertical
scale should be increased.
b) Character of the Terrain
In order to portray the irregularities of flat or fairly level ground, a greater amount of
vertical exaggerations should be used. Correspondingly, a small ratio is used for
rugged terrain where differences in elevation between ground points are significantly
large.
c) Horizontal Scale
The horizontal scale is often chosen to fit the plotted profile into a convenient size of
paper. If the selected horizontal scale is drawn large, a smaller vertical scale is used.
Consequently, a smaller horizontal scale would require a greater amount of vertical
exaggeration.
SAMPLE PROBLEMS:
E8-3 LOCATING STATIONS
Work out the following problems regarding points and stations along a profile level
route.
Solution:
a) A turning point along a profile level route measures 126.44 m beyond station
8+24.50. Determine the stationing of this turning point.
𝑑𝑡𝑝 = 126.44 𝑚
𝑑𝑠𝑡𝑎 = 8 + 24.50 = 824.50 𝑚
𝐷 = 𝑑𝑡𝑝 + 𝑑𝑠𝑡𝑎 = 824.50 + 126.44 = 950.94 𝑚

𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑷𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒕 = 𝟗 + 𝟓𝟎. 𝟗𝟒

b) For the illustrated problem given above, determine the stationing of the turning
point if it is instead located 83.45 m before the given reference point.

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CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

𝑑𝑡𝑝 = 83.45 𝑚
𝑑𝑠𝑡𝑎 = 8 + 24.50 = 824.50 𝑚
𝐷 = 𝑑𝑠𝑡𝑎 − 𝑑𝑡𝑝 = 824.50 − 83.45 = 741.05 𝑚

𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑷𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒕 = 𝟕 + 𝟒𝟏. 𝟎𝟓

c) Determine the distance between station 33+45.02 and station 26+62.75
𝑑1 = 33 + 45.02 = 3,345.02 𝑚
𝑑2 = 26 + 62.75 = 2,662.75 𝑚
𝑑 = 𝑑2 − 𝑑1 = 3345.02 − 2662.75 = 𝟔𝟖𝟐. 𝟐𝟕 𝒎
E8-4 PROFILE LEVELING. Complete the following set of profile level notes and show
the customary arithmetic check.
STA BS HI FS IFS ELEV
BMa 0.95 125.50 m
0+00 3.0
0+10 2.3
TP1 3.13 0.64
0+22 2.7
0+30.5 2.8
0+34.2 3.1
0+39.2 0.5
0+42.5 0.8
TP2 2.16 1.28
0+45 0.9
0+48.6 1.2
0+50 1.7
0+53.7 2.8
TP3 0.85 2.37
TP4 1.35 3.50
0+75 3.0
BMb 1.99

Solution:
Computation of HI′ and Elevation of Stations
125.50 + 0.95 = 126.45 (𝐻𝐼1 )
126.45 − 3.0 = 123.5 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 00)
126.45 − 2.3 = 124.2 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 10)
126.45 − 0.64 = 125.81 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑇𝑃1 )
125.81 + 3.13 = 128.94 (𝐻𝐼2 )
128.94 − 2.7 = 126.2 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 22)
128.94 − 2.8 = 126.1 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 30.5)
128.94 − 3.1 = 125.8 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 34.2)
128.94 − 0.5 = 128.4 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 39.3)
128.94 − 0.8 = 128.1 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 42.5)
128.94 − 1.28 = 127.66 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑇𝑃2 )
127.66 + 2.16 = 129.82 (𝐻𝐼3 )
129.82 − 0.9 = 128.9 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 45)
129.82 − 0.9 = 128.9 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 48.6)

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CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

129.82 − 1.2 = 128.6 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 50)

129.82 − 1.7 = 128.1 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 53.7)
129.82 − 2.37 = 127.45 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑇𝑃3 )
127.45 + 0.82 = 128.27 (𝐻𝐼4 )
128.27 − 3.50 = 124.77 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑇𝑃4 )
124.77 + 1.35 = 126.12 (𝐻𝐼5 )
126.12 − 3.0 = 123.1 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝑆𝑡𝑎 0 + 75)
126.12 − 1.99 = 124.13 (𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐵𝑀𝑏 )
Determining Foresight and Backsight Sums:

∑ 𝐵𝑆 = 0.95 + 3.13 + 2.16 + 0.82 + 1.35 = +8.41 𝑚

∑ 𝐹𝑆 = −(0.64 + 1.28 + 2.37 + 3.50 + 1.99) = −9.78 𝑚

STA BS HI FS IFS ELEV

BMa 0.95 126.45 125.50 m
0+00 3.0 123.50 m
0+10 2.3 124.20 m
TP1 3.13 128.94 0.64 125.81 m
0+22 2.7 126.20 m
0+30.5 2.8 126.10 m
0+34.2 3.1 125.80 m
0+39.2 0.5 128.40 m
0+42.5 0.8 128.10 m
TP2 2.16 129.82 1.28 127.66 m
0+45 0.9 128.90 m
0+48.6 1.2 128.60 m
0+50 1.7 128.10 m
0+53.7 2.8 127.00 m
TP3 0.85 128.27 2.37 127.45 m
TP4 1.35 126.12 3.50 124.77 m
0+75 3.0 123.10 m
BMb 1.99 124.13 m
TOTAL +8.41 -9.78

Arithmetic Check:
125.50 + 8.41 − 9.78 = 𝟏𝟐𝟒. 𝟏𝟑 𝒎
8.3 Trigonometric Leveling
Trigonometric leveling or indirect leveling is defined as the determination of
difference in elevation from observed vertical angle and either horizontal or inclined
distances. Vertical measurements determined by trigonometric methods are only
approximate unless the observed vertical angles and the required distances are
precisely measured. This method of leveling is used extensively when undertaking
topographic surveys over rugged or rolling terrain since it provides a rapid means of
determining vertical distances and elevation of points.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

In figure, illustrates a typical setup for trigonometric leveling where the observed
vertical angle is α and the known horizontal and inclined distances, measured in
meters, are d and s, respectively. The height of the instrument above point A is
denoted as H.I., and the reading on the rod held at the distant point B is RR. The
vertical distance, V, could be determined in two ways as follows:
𝑉 = 𝑑 (𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛼 ) ; 𝑉 = 𝑠(𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼)
Correspondingly, the difference in elevation between A and B may be determined by
any of the following equations:
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = 𝑑 (𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛼 ) + ℎ. 𝑖. −𝑅𝑅
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = 𝑠(𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼 ) + ℎ. 𝑖. −𝑅𝑅
If the elevation of A is known, the elevation of B can then be determined as follows:
𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐵 = 𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐴 + 𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏
This method of determining difference in elevation should be limited only to
horizontal distances not exceeding 300 meters. When distances are much longer, the
combined effects of earth’s curvature and refraction must be considered and applied
in the calculation of vertical distances. It must also be understood that in
trigonometric leveling the observed vertical angle may either be an angle of elevation
(+ sight) or angle of depression (- sight). An upward positive sight is illustrated in
figure. In previous equations will be slightly different if a downward or negative sight
is observed. The correct equations can easily be determined by simply drawing a
sketch of a particular setup.
When trigonometric leveling is employed in much longer sights, the slope distance is
measured using EDM instruments and precise optical theodolites are utilized for
measuring vertical angles. Also, the correction for the combined effects of curvature
and refraction is added when the vertical angle is an upward sight; it is subtracted
when a downward sight is observed. For the illustrated setup in figure, and assuming
that long sights are involved, the difference in elevation between points A and B
would be then be written as:

𝑑 2
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = 𝑑 (𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛼 ) + ℎ. 𝑖. −𝑅𝑅 + 0.0675 ( )
1000
𝑑 2
( )
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = 𝑠 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼 + ℎ. 𝑖. −𝑅𝑅 + 0.0675 ( )
1000

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CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

The effects of curvature and refraction can be eliminated if vertical angle

observations are made simultaneously at both ends of the line such as points A and
B. This technique is termed reciprocal vertical-angle observation. When applied, it is
no longer necessary to take into account the effects of curvature and refraction, and
the correct difference in elevation between the two points is taken as the mean of the
two values computed both ways, Thus:
𝑑
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = (𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛼 + 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛽 )
2
𝑠
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = (𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛼 + 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝛽)
2
Where DEab is the required difference in elevation between points A and B, α is the
vertical angle taken from A to B, β is the vertical angle taken from B to A, d and s are
the horizontal and inclined distances between the two points, respectively. This
procedure is usually adapted in precise leveling work.
SAMPLE PROBLEMS:
E8-5 TRIGONOMETRIC LEVELING. In figure, a vertical angle of +13°45’ is read to a
target 1.23 m above point B. The measured inclined distance, s, is 823.29 m and the
elevation of point A is 123.65 m above datum. If the height of instrument at A is 1.35
m, determine the difference in elevation between A and B and the elevation of B,
considering the effects of curvature and atmospheric refraction.
Solution:

𝑉
sin(𝜃 ) =
; 𝑉 = 𝑠(𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 )
𝑠
𝑉 = 823.29 𝑚(sin(13°45′)) = 195.68 𝑚
𝑑 = 𝑠(𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃) = 823.29 𝑚(𝑐𝑜𝑠13°45′ ) = 799.70 𝑚
𝑑 2 799.70 𝑚 2
ℎ𝑐𝑟 = 0.0675 ( ) = 0.0675 ( ) = 0.04 𝑚
1000 1000
𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = ℎ. 𝑖. +𝑉 − 𝑅𝑅 + ℎ𝑐𝑟 = 1.35 𝑚 + 195.68 𝑚 − 1.23 𝑚 + 0.04 𝑚 = 𝟏𝟗𝟓. 𝟖𝟒 𝒎
𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐵 = 𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐴 + 𝐷𝐸𝑎𝑏 = 123.65 𝑚 + 195.84 𝑚 = 𝟑𝟏𝟗. 𝟒𝟗 𝒎
8.4 Inverse Leveling
In the conventional method of differential leveling we normally see to it that the line
of sight of the instrument is always higher than any point on which the leveling rod is
held. However, this is not always the case. It is sometimes necessary to determine the
elevation of a point located higher than the telescope of the instrument. For example,

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

it may be necessary to determine the elevation of a point under a bridge or to check

the underside of a tunnel roof. In such situations, the rod is held upside down and its
base is placed up at the desired point. The rod is then read and the distance to the line
of sight is recorded in the normal way. A reading, whether backsight or foresight, can
thus be obtained. Note keeping is standard except that a backsight is prefixed by a
negative sign and a foresight with a positive sign. The calculations are still carried out
in the usual manner and it is important to write an explanatory note on the right-hand
page of the field notebook to clarify the reversal of signs.
When an obstruction such as a concrete wall is encountered along a level route, the
usual procedure is to get around it. This may be way to go about it, however, it could
be time consuming or may not be possible at all. In such a situation, inverse leveling
should solve the problem.
SAMPLE PROBLEM:
E8-6 INVERSE LEVELING. A tall concrete wall is an obstruction along a level route
between points A and B. To proceed with the leveling work, an inverse method of
leveling is executed at the vicinity of the obstruction where rod readings were taken
with the rod held upside down as shown in figure. From the observed data portrayed
in the figure, determine the elevation of point B.

Solution:
𝐻𝐼1 = 𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐴 + 𝐵𝑆 = 528.25 𝑚 + 2.05 𝑚 = 530.30 𝑚
𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑤 = 𝐻𝐼1 − (−𝐹𝑆) = 530.30 𝑚 − (−2.60 𝑚) = 532.90 𝑚
𝐻𝐼2 = 𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑤 + (−𝐵𝑆) = 532.90 𝑚 + (−3.92 𝑚) = 528.98 𝑚
𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣 𝐵 = 𝐻𝐼2 − 𝐹𝑆 = 528.98 𝑚 − 2.68 𝑚 = 𝟓𝟐𝟔. 𝟑𝟎 𝒎
𝐴𝑟𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐶ℎ𝑒𝑐𝑘:

∑ 𝐵𝑆 = 2.05 + (−3.92) = −1.87 𝑚

∑ 𝐹𝑆 = −2.60 + 2.68 = +0.08 𝑚

528.25 𝑚 − 1.87 𝑚 − 0.08 𝑚 = 𝟓𝟐𝟔. 𝟑𝟎 𝒎
Modular Questions

M8-1 DIFFERENTIAL LEVELING. Preparing and complete the differential level notes
for the information shown in the accompanying figure. Include the customary
arithmetic check.

Module 8: Leveling Methods

CEP233 – Fundamentals of Surveying

M8-2 PROFILE LEVELING. Figure shows a schematic arrangement of a profile level

route from BM33 to BM34. The values indicated represent backsight, foresight, and
intermediate foresight readings taken on stations along the route. Prepare and
complete profile level notes for the portrayed information. Show the customary
arithmetic check and plot the profile.

M8-3 TRIGONOMETRIC LEVELING. A vertical angle of -12°25’ is measured to the top

of a water tank from an instrument set up on a hill 585.00 meters away from it. The
telescope of the instrument is 1.45 m above the ground whose elevation is 462.73 m.
Making due allowance for the earth’s curvature and atmospheric refraction,
determine the elevation of the base of the water tank is the tank is 32.0 m high.

References

La Putt, J.P. (1987). Elementary Surveying (3rd ed.). Baguio City, Philippines: Baguio
Research & Publishing Center

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Module 8: Leveling Methods