CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

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Prepare for the CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification. Study using flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

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Most total stations measure distances based upon which of the following?

  1. Light waves

  2. Stadia measurements

  3. Distance between upper and lower transit readings

  4. Sound waves

The correct answer is: Light waves

Total stations primarily measure distances by utilizing light waves, specifically through the principle of electromagnetic distance measurement (EDM). When the total station emits a laser beam, it travels to a target point and reflects back to the instrument. The total station calculates the distance by measuring the time it takes for the light to make the round trip. Since the speed of light is a known constant, this time measurement allows for precise distance calculations. The use of light waves allows for high accuracy and quick measurements, which is essential in land surveying. Other methods, such as stadia measurements or sound waves, may be used in specific applications but do not provide the same level of precision and reliability as light wave measurements in total stations. Therefore, the dependence on light waves is the fundamental operation behind most total stations, making it the correct choice.

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