NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide to Ensure Exam Success!

Using the angle of elevation in surveying primarily allows surveyors to determine the height of objects. This geometric concept involves measuring the angle formed between a horizontal line and the line of sight to a point that is above the observer's level.

When the angle of elevation is known, along with the distance from the observer to the base of the object, surveyors can apply trigonometric principles, specifically the tangent function, to calculate the height. This is particularly useful when determining the heights of structures, trees, or any other vertical elements that may not be easily measured directly.

The process of determining the height based on the angle of elevation is essential in various applications, including construction projects, environmental studies, and landscape assessment. Thus, it enhances the surveyor's ability to collect vital data that influences project design and execution.