CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What distinguishes geodetic surveying from plane surveying?

1. It is conducted over small areas only

2. It assumes a flat plane for measurements

3. It accounts for the curvature of the Earth

4. It does not use monuments for reference

The correct answer is: It accounts for the curvature of the Earth

Geodetic surveying is distinguished from plane surveying primarily because it takes into account the curvature of the Earth in its measurements and calculations. This is crucial because the Earth is not a perfect sphere; it has an irregular shape known as an ellipsoid. When surveying large areas, the curvature can affect the accuracy of the measurements if it's not considered. In geodetic surveying, the frameworks used to measure distances and angles are based on the shape of the Earth, using mathematical models to ensure accuracy over extensive areas. This contrasts with plane surveying, which operates under the assumption that the Earth is flat, suitable for smaller areas where the curvature is negligible and can effectively be ignored without significantly impacting accuracy. Considering the purpose of geodetic surveying allows for precise positioning and mapping on a larger scale, which is essential for various applications, including navigation, mapping, and geophysical studies.