Clinometer

Clinometer, an instrument for measuring angles of inclination to the horizontal plane. It is convenient to surveyors for the measurement of the slopes of cuttings or embankments, for taking the dip or inclination of a stratum, or for similar purposes. There are different forms of the instrument, but the principle is simple; if a bar be ranged along the slope, a plumb-line suspended from it will make with it an angle equal to the inclination of the slope to the vertical. A spirit level adjusted horizontally will make with the bar an angle equal to its inclination to the horizontal. Either of these angles may be read on a graduated quadrant fixed to the bar.