Traverse computations – projection of a leg on the reference meridian In coordinate (latitude–departure) computations, the orthographic projection of a traverse leg upon the reference meridian is termed the:

Introduction / Context:
Closed traverses are reduced by resolving each side into components along a reference meridian (north–south) and a reference parallel (east–west). The component names have long-standing conventions in surveying. This question checks your ability to assign the correct term to the north–south component used in balancing traverses and computing coordinates and areas.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Reference meridian is the north–south direction.
• Orthographic projection ignores curvature for small traverses.
• Sign convention: northings positive, southings negative (common practice).

Concept / Approach:

The component along the meridian (north–south axis) is called the latitude of the line. The component along the parallel (east–west axis) is the departure. These components are used to compute coordinate increments, check linear misclosure, and perform traverse balancing via Bowditch or transit rules.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Any traverse computation example will show “latitudes” for N–S and “departures” for E–W components, confirming the terminology.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Departure: this is the east–west component on the reference parallel.

Coordinate of the leg: generic term; not the standard component name.

Bearing: angular direction, not a linear projection.

Common Pitfalls:

Swapping sine and cosine for a given bearing definition; mixing local and true meridians; neglecting sign conventions leading to area sign errors.

Final Answer:

Latitude of the leg