When conducting a traverse, what type of measurement can be conducted?

In a traverse, both angles and distances are measured to determine the relative positions of points in a surveyed area. The process typically involves measuring angles at each station point, which helps to establish the direction of the traverse, and measuring the linear distances between those points, which provides the actual distances to be used in computing the positions of the points.

By combining these two types of measurements—angles and distances—surveyors are able to create a more accurate representation of the survey area, allowing for precise calculations of locations, areas, and other relevant data. This combined approach is critical in creating a detailed and reliable survey, as it ensures that both horizontal and vertical relationships between points are accounted for.

In contrast, measuring only distances would lack direction, making it impossible to determine precise locations in a plane. Similarly, measuring only angles without corresponding distances would result in a loss of the actual spatial context. Elevation measurements pertain to a different aspect of surveying and are not a primary consideration in the context of a standard traverse, which focuses on horizontal positioning. Thus, the best approach within a traverse is the integration of both angle and distance measurements, confirming that combining them is essential for effective surveying.