CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What does magnetic declination describe?

1. The angle between true north and magnetic north

2. The difference in elevation between two points

3. The error margin in distance measurements

4. The orientation of land parcels

The correct answer is: The angle between true north and magnetic north

Magnetic declination refers to the angle between true north, which is the geodetic direction towards the North Pole, and magnetic north, which is the direction indicated by a magnetic compass. This angle is important for navigation and surveying because it helps convert compass readings into true north directions. Magnetic declination can vary by location and can change over time due to changes in the Earth's magnetic field. Understanding magnetic declination is crucial for accurate land surveying and mapping, as it allows surveyors to ensure their measurements align with universally accepted geographic references. This concept does not relate to differences in elevation, distance measurement errors, or the orientation of land parcels, which are addressed by other surveying principles and techniques. Correctly accounting for magnetic declination ensures that surveyors achieve precision in their work, leading to more reliable outcomes in land division, property surveying, and navigation.