Step-by-step Guide To Using A Clinometer

A clinometer is an instrument that is used to measure angles of inclination, slope or elevation of an object. In other words, it is used to measure the height of objects from a distance using the geometry of triangles. It can be used to measure the inclines of positive slopes, which is when one observes the object from bottom up, or the declines of negative slopes, which is when one observes the object from top to bottom. Clinometers are mostly used in forestry to determine the height of plants or trees, as well as used to measure buildings or structures that are difficult or impractical to measure through physical methods. Looking through the lens of a clinometer, you will see a scale that represents the units used by the varying clinometer. While the idea of learning how to use a clinometer may sound difficult, it really can be quite simple. All you will need is the clinometer and the object to be measured. Read on to learn how to use a clinometer.

First of all, you should find for a place that is suitable to measure the object. This is referred to as the baseline distance. This baseline distance is dependent on the type of clinometer you use, for example, some requires 15 metres of baseline distance, which indicates the distance for an accurate measurement. Whichever the type of clinometer used, it is best to stay within the baseline distance so that your measurements will be as accurate as possible. Then, in order to attain your measurements, you will need to make sure that the clinometer is positioned correctly, which is displayed on its casing stating "up" for the correct side up. Next, you will need to look through the lens with one eye and the other eye closed, towards the object you want to measure. Through the lens, you will be able to see the visually projected scale, in which you will need to visually position the scale so that the object is aligned against the scale. You will see that there are values at the base and the top of the object. In order to deduce the height, you will need to calculate the difference between the base value and the top value. For example, if the top value is 6m and the base value is 3m, the difference makes 3m, which is the height of the object. When you have gathered the information you need, always keep it in its casing to protect it from damage.

By: Chris Cornel

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Enjoy reading more information about related topics like how to use a clinomete and how to use a clinometer .