CE-303 Surveying - Dec 2025 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

1. 14 Marks
   Define surveying. Discuss types of surveying and classification of survey. Also define the principles of surveying.
   How to answer

   • Definition of surveying as measurement of distances, angles and positions
   • Types of surveying - plane vs geodetic, and based on purpose/instruments
   • Classification of survey - chain, compass, plane table, theodolite, etc.
   • Two fundamental principles: whole to part and location by measurement from two reference points
2. 14 Marks
   Explain the characteristics of transition curve and derive equation for ideal transition curve.
   How to answer

   • Characteristics/requirements of transition curve - gradual change of curvature and superelevation
   • Length criteria and shift, tangent conditions
   • Derivation starting from centrifugal force and rate of change of radial acceleration
   • Ideal transition curve equation $l \cdot R = constant$ i.e. clothoid
3. 7 Marks
   aWhat are the factors that influence aerial photography also write the advantages and disadvantages of aerial photogrammetry.
   How to answer

   • Factors influencing aerial photography - weather, scale, overlap, camera, aircraft, ground control
   • Advantages of aerial photogrammetry - speed, coverage, inaccessible areas
   • Disadvantages - cost, weather dependence, interpretation errors
   • Conclusion on applications
4. 7 Marks
   bExplain chain survey. What are the different obstacles in chaining?
   How to answer

   • Definition and procedure of chain survey
   • Suitability for small flat areas
   • Types of obstacles: chaining free-vision obstructed, chaining obstructed-vision free, both obstructed
   • Methods to overcome obstacles
5. 7 Marks
   aWhat is photogrammetric survey also mention the different type of aerial photographs in detail.
   How to answer

   • Definition of photogrammetric survey
   • Principle of measurement from photographs
   • Types of aerial photographs - vertical, low oblique, high oblique
   • Details of each type with diagram
6. 7 Marks
   bExplain EDM with its principle. Also write the types of EDM.
   How to answer

   • Definition and principle of EDM - measurement by electromagnetic waves
   • Phase difference / time of flight principle with formula $D = v \cdot t/2$
   • Types: microwave, infrared, visible light instruments
   • Examples - geodimeter, tellurometer, total station
7. 7 Marks
   aWhat is local attraction? How it can be detected?
   How to answer

   • Definition of local attraction due to magnetic substances
   • Effect on compass bearings
   • Detection by checking fore and back bearing difference vs $180^{\circ}$
   • Correction by included angles
8. 7 Marks
   bExplain temporary adjustments in theodolite surveying.
   How to answer

   • List of temporary adjustments: setting, centering, levelling, focusing
   • Procedure for each adjustment on theodolite
   • Need for temporary vs permanent adjustments
   • Checks before observation
9. 7 Marks
   aDifferentiate between the surveyor compass and prismatic compass.
   How to answer

   • Constructional differences - needle, graduation, sighting, reading system
   • Tabular comparison on at least 6-8 points
   • Bearing system - QB vs WCB
   • Uses of each compass
10. 7 Marks
    bDefine vertical curve. What are the two types of vertical curves?
    How to answer

    • Definition of vertical curve for gradient change
    • Two types: summit/sag curves
    • Characteristics and equation form
    • Applications in roads/railways
11. 7 Marks
    aWhat do you understand by orientation of the plane table? How it is carried out in field?
    How to answer

    • Meaning of orientation - keeping table parallel to original position
    • Methods: magnetic needle and back sighting
    • Field procedure steps
    • Importance for plane table surveying
12. 7 Marks
    bDiscuss the use of tacheometry for traversing and contouring.
    How to answer

    • Principle of tacheometry for distance and elevation
    • Use in traversing - speed and procedure
    • Use in contouring - stadia method and plotting
    • Advantages and limitations
13. 14 Marks
    Write detail note on two of the following:

    1. i)Elements of circular curves
    2. ii)Uses of analytic lens in Tacheometry
    3. iii)Trigonometric Levelling
    How to answer

    • Select any two topics from the three options
    • Definition, formulas/diagrams and procedure for each
    • Applications and significance in surveying
    • Neat sketch where applicable