Detailed Definition
A chain is a unit of measurement traditionally used in land surveying. One chain equals 66 feet or 22 yards in length. The chain is composed of 100 links, with each link representing a portion of the total chain length. This measurement system was widely adopted for its simplicity and accuracy in measuring large areas of land.
Historical Context
The chain was introduced in the 17th century by Edmund Gunter, an English clergyman, and mathematician. Known as Gunter’s chain, it became a standard tool in land surveying and helped in creating more accurate maps and land records. The use of chains allowed surveyors to more easily calculate area and distances, simplifying the complex geometry involved in land surveying.
Examples
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Land Parcel Measurement:
- If a surveyor measures a square plot of land that is 66 feet on each side, this plot can be described as being 1 chain by 1 chain.
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Agricultural Uses:
- Historically, farmers measured their fields in acres using chains. One acre is equivalent to 10 square chains (66 feet x 660 feet = 43,560 square feet, which is one acre).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is the chain still relevant today?
Although modern surveying tools such as theodolites and GPS systems have largely replaced the chain, it is still used in rural and historical land measurements and remains prevalent in older property descriptions.
2. How many links are in one chain?
One chain consists of 100 links, making it easier for surveyors to divide and measure smaller distances accurately.
3. How does the chain measure up against modern units of measurement?
One chain equals 66 feet, or approximately 20.1168 meters. It provides a precise linear measurement that is still recognized in modern surveying standards.
Related Terms with Definitions
Link:
A link is the smallest unit of a chain, 1/100th of a chain, or 0.66 feet (7.92 inches).
Acre:
An acre is a unit of area measurement equal to 43,560 square feet or 10 square chains.
Gunter’s Chain:
A historical surveying tool introduced by Edmund Gunter in the 17th century. It is 66 feet long and used for measuring large land areas.
Online Resources
- US Geological Survey (USGS): Information on modern and historical land survey methods.
- National Geodetic Survey (NGS): Provides resources and guidelines on land surveying.
- NGS Survey Methods
References
- “Surveying: Theory and Practice” by Raymond E. Davis & Francis S. Foote, McGraw-Hill Education, 10th Edition.
- “Elementary Surveying: An Introduction to Geomatics” by Charles D. Ghilani & Paul R. Wolf, Pearson, 15th Edition.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Surveying and Land Information Systems” by United States Bureau of Land Management - Provides comprehensive insights on historical and modern surveying systems.
- “Land Surveying Simplified” by Paul Gay - Explains surveying concepts in an easily understandable manner.
- “Introduction to Geospatial Technologies” by Bradley Shellito - Covers modern tools and techniques in the field of surveying and geospatial analysis.
