What is the primary aim of plane surveying?

The primary aim of plane surveying is to conduct precise horizontal control points. Plane surveying focuses on measurements that are made on a flat plane, which simplifies the calculation of distances and angles. In this method, the curvature of the Earth is typically ignored, allowing surveyors to determine the relative positions of points in a two-dimensional horizontal plane with high accuracy.

The generation of precise horizontal control points is crucial in various applications, including land subdivision, construction projects, and mapping. These control points serve as reference markers that facilitate further surveying tasks, ensuring accuracy and consistency in measurements.

While creating topographic maps and establishing vertical control points are important aspects of surveying, they are not the primary aim of plane surveying. Topographic maps integrate both horizontal and vertical data, while vertical control typically falls under leveling operations, which is a component of geodetic surveying that focuses on elevation changes. Similarly, measuring elevations of land pertains more to vertical survey methods rather than the horizontal precision emphasized in plane surveying. Thus, the main objective remains firmly rooted in achieving accurate horizontal control.