What is the purpose of “differential leveling”?

Differential leveling is a precise surveying technique used to determine the height difference between two points. It involves the use of a leveling instrument and a staff to accurately measure vertical distances. This method is crucial in various applications, including construction, land surveying, and geodetic measurements, as it ensures that the elevation data collected is reliable and can be used for projects where accurate height differences are essential, such as establishing building foundations or determining drainage slopes.

The other options do not align with the core function of differential leveling. Calculating distances across a flat surface relates more to horizontal measurements rather than vertical height differences. Collecting data from multiple observation points usually refers to different survey methods like triangulation or trilateration, while measuring angles with precision is the domain of angular measurements in surveying, not specifically related to height differences. Thus, identifying the purpose as determining the height difference between two points with high accuracy is what defines differential leveling.