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Triangulation Method

Interactive Triangulation Demonstration

A B C Base Line (known) Distance Distance

Key Principles

  • Measure base line length accurately
  • Observe angles from both ends of base line
  • Calculate unknown distances using trigonometry
  • Form network of triangles for larger areas

Mathematical Formula

Law of Sines:

a/sin(A) = b/sin(B) = c/sin(C)

Where a, b, c are sides and A, B, C are angles

Historical Significance

Ancient Origins

Used by ancient civilizations for construction and navigation

Golden Age

Crucial for mapping and national surveys in 18th-19th centuries

Modern Applications

Still relevant in GPS technology and satellite positioning

Practical Applications

Topographic Mapping

Creating accurate terrain maps and elevation models

Construction

Setting out buildings and infrastructure projects

Geodetic Networks

Establishing control points for large-scale surveys

Satellite Navigation

Supporting modern GPS positioning systems