Traverse Computations – Deflection Angle Between Consecutive Legs Using Reduced Bearings Given two consecutive traverse legs with bearings AB = N 52°45' E and BC = N 34°30' E (both as reduced bearings), determine the deflection at station B (state magnitude and sense as Right or Left).

Introduction:
In plane traversing, the deflection angle at a station is the acute angle through which the direction of travel turns from one leg to the next, measured from the forward extension of the incoming tangent to the outgoing line, and designated as Right (R) or Left (L). Correctly interpreting reduced bearings is essential for consistent traverse adjustment and plotting.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Bearing of AB = N 52°45' E (first quadrant).
• Bearing of BC = N 34°30' E (first quadrant).
• Both are reduced bearings; deflection is the change in direction from AB to BC at B.

Concept / Approach:

When bearings lie in the same quadrant, the deflection is simply the numerical difference in their angles from the north line, with the sense determined by whether the second bearing rotates clockwise (Right) or counter-clockwise (Left) from the first. A smaller second bearing means turning toward the north line, i.e., a Left deflection.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Consider limiting cases: if the two bearings were equal there would be zero deflection; if BC angle were larger, the turn would be Right. The present case matches a Left turn by the calculated difference.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Options with compass letters (E, N, W) are not deflection senses; “R” is incorrect because the rotation is toward the north line; only “L” with 18°15' matches the geometry.

Common Pitfalls:

Mixing whole circle and reduced bearings; forgetting to attach the correct sense (R/L) even with the right magnitude.

Final Answer:

18° 15' L