CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What is a fractional scale?

1. A scale that shows distances in both metric and imperial units

2. A map scale expressed in the form of a fraction or ratio

3. A measuring device used to assess the width of rivers

4. A physical representation of topographical features

The correct answer is: A map scale expressed in the form of a fraction or ratio

A fractional scale is defined as a scale expressed in the form of a fraction or ratio, which shows the relationship between a distance on the map and the corresponding distance on the ground. For instance, a fractional scale of 1:100,000 indicates that 1 unit of measurement on the map (such as an inch or centimeter) equals 100,000 of the same units on the ground. This type of scale is particularly useful in map reading because it allows for easy calculations for distances and areas, enabling users to convert between map measurements and real-world distances seamlessly. While other options cover various aspects of surveying and mapping, they do not accurately define what a fractional scale is. The mention of distances in both metric and imperial units refers more to a dual-scale representation rather than a fractional scale itself. A measuring device for assessing river widths and a physical representation of topographical features focus on different survey tools and concepts not directly related to the mathematical expression of scale.