What is the purpose of a meridian in surveying?

The purpose of a meridian in surveying is to define directions in a north-south orientation. A meridian is an imaginary line that connects the North and South Poles and is crucial for establishing a frame of reference in navigation and mapping. By using meridians, surveyors can accurately determine bearings and angles relative to true north, which is essential for ensuring that property boundaries, roads, and other features are correctly oriented on maps and in the field.

This orientation is foundational for creating accurate surveys, as it allows for uniformity in measurements and helps in aligning structures and land parcels according to their intended design. Meridians are essential in both traditional surveying methods and modern techniques such as GPS, which rely on these reference points to provide precise location data.