Topo Triangulation
A map and compass are both needed for triangulation.Copyright http://panthertown.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/compass-on-map.jpg
In this activity, students learn how to read a topographical map and how to triangulate with just a map. True triangulation requires both a map and compass, but to simplify the activity and make it possible indoors, the compass information is given. Students practice converting a compass measurement to a protractor measurement, as well as reverse a bearing direction (i.e., if they know a tree's bearing is 100 degrees from you, they can determine what bearing they are from the tree). Students use the accompanying worksheets to take a bearing of certain landmarks and then start at those landmarks to work backwards to figure out where they are.
Triangulation technology is used for many applications. Sometimes engineers use triangulation to create auto focus in cameras. With two special rangefinder devices attached to the camera at different spots, a computer interprets the distance of an object by observing the reflected light rays. Engineers also create contour plots for more than just land features. Contours show fluid flow, temperature gradients, sound propagation and specifications important to engineers.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Identify major features in a topographical map,
- Use triangulation to determine position
- Create a coordinate graph
- Understand how triangulation technology is used in many fields of engineering