This value represents the change in the X-coordinate along a specific course. It is calculated by multiplying the horizontal distance of the line by the sine of its bearing angle. Surveyors use this metric, along with latitude, to compute coordinates, check traverse closures, and adjust mathematical errors in a boundary loop.
The departure on that last leg was negative fifty feet, meaning we moved exactly fifty feet west of the previous hub.
Also heard as
- easting difference
Related terms
Close
To complete a traverse and return to the starting point or another known control point with acceptable accuracy.
Misclosure
The geometric discrepancy that occurs when a traverse or level loop fails to close perfectly on its starting point.
Traverse table
A printed reference book used to look up the latitude and departure of a survey line based on its bearing and distance.