Measuring horizontal distance by stepping on sloping ground During stepping (using a tape or chain held horizontal), under which condition is it generally more difficult to obtain accurate horizontal distance measurements?

Introduction / Context:
Stepping is a practical method to measure horizontal distance on slopes by holding the tape horizontally in short steps. Field accuracy depends on footing, alignment, and proper use of plumb bobs. Knowing when stepping becomes difficult helps crews choose better techniques (e.g., slope correction or electronic distance measurement).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Measurements are made by stepping the tape in short horizontal segments.
• Operators must plumb down to ground for each step.
• Ground may be up-hill, down-hill, undulating, or level.

Concept / Approach:

Down-hill stepping is harder because the leader must control the tape while facing down-slope, maintain balance, and keep the tape truly horizontal with the plumb bob hanging free without clearance issues. Errors from mis-plumbing and tape sag are more pronounced; footing is poorer and sighting alignment is harder compared with up-hill stepping or level ground.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Field practice manuals recommend shortening steps or switching methods on steep down-slopes to mitigate error, underscoring the difficulty of down-hill stepping.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Up-hill stepping is generally easier to control because the tape can be braced against slope and plumb bob control is better.

Low undulations and level plains present fewer stability issues.

“None” is incorrect because one condition is clearly worse.

Common Pitfalls:

Over-long steps on steep slopes; not checking horizontality at each step; ignoring cumulative small plumbing errors.

Final Answer:

Down-hill stepping