The calculated error that remains when a series of measured angles and distances in a closed traverse do not mathematically return exactly to the starting coordinate. It represents the accumulated random errors from instrument setups, atmospheric conditions, and sighting inaccuracies. Surveyors compare this value against allowable tolerances to determine if the work can be adjusted or must be completely re-measured.
We ran a three-mile level loop and ended up with a misclosure of two hundredths, which is well within tolerance for this job.
A large misclosure usually points to a specific blunder, like a busted height of instrument or a misread rod, rather than accumulated random error.
Also heard as
- error of closure
Do not mix it up with
- Misclose: Misclose is often used as the verb form, while misclosure is the noun representing the actual error value.
Related terms
Close
To complete a traverse and return to the starting point or another known control point with acceptable accuracy.
Misclose
The geometric gap between the starting and ending points of a closed traverse.
Traverse table
A printed reference book used to look up the latitude and departure of a survey line based on its bearing and distance.
Leveling
The process of measuring elevation differences between points on the earth's surface.