In mining surveys, what does the vertical distance from the occupied station refer to?

In mining surveys, the vertical distance from the occupied station refers to the height of the point surveyed. This measure is crucial as it provides information about how high above or below a benchmark the surveyed point is located.

Understanding this height is essential for accurate calculations regarding the terrain and for planning the extraction of minerals. It allows engineers to assess the differences in elevation, which can impact both the design of mining activities and the safety measures that need to be put in place. Knowing the height also aids in determining drainage patterns, stability of slopes, and other geological considerations important for mining operations.

The other options provide different types of measurements that do not directly refer to the vertical distance specifically related to the height of a point from the occupied survey station.