Which type of leveling equipment is primarily used by surveyors for height measurement?

The leveling rod is primarily used by surveyors for height measurement because it serves as a clear and precise tool for determining vertical distances in relation to a benchmark or datum point. When used in conjunction with a leveling instrument, the leveling rod allows surveyors to accurately measure differences in elevation. The rod often has markings that indicate the height in specific units, facilitating easy reading of the height measurement from the instrument's line of sight.

In contrast, other options do not specifically serve the primary function of height measurement in surveying contexts. A barometer measures atmospheric pressure and is not used for determining elevation differences. A height gauge is generally utilized in manufacturing and engineering fields for measuring vertical heights but lacks the direct application to leveling over distances like a leveling rod. A laser level, while it provides a very accurate horizontal plane, functions more as a leveling tool rather than a direct measuring stick like the leveling rod, which is specifically designed to interface with the adjusting equipment used in surveying.