Triangulate: Topos, Compasses and Triangles, Oh My!
A compass and map are used to determine location.Copyright Wikimedia Commons http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:CompassUseMapMarked.jpg
In this activity, students learn how to actually triangulate using a compass, topographical (topo) map and view of outside landmarks. It is best if a field trip to another location away from school is selected. The location should have easily discernable landmarks (like mountains or radio towers) and changes in elevation (to illustrate the topographical features) to enhance the activity. A national park is an ideal location, and visiting a number of parks, especially parks with hiking trails, is especially beneficial.
Triangulation technology is used for many applications. Engineers use the concepts of triangulation to design non-contact distance measurement devices that use lasers instead of mechanical measurements. These optical triangulation sensors take very accurate measurements quickly. These devices are especially good in situations in which the surface being measured is delicate, tiny, moving or in some way impossible to measure physically (the width of a volcano opening).
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Read elevation lines,
- Use a compass to locate landmarks on a map
- Identify the major features in topographical maps.
- Understand how triangulation technology is used in many fields of engineering