CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What type of error occurs despite repeated measurements being taken correctly?

1. Random error

2. Systematic error

3. Blunder

4. Instrument error

The correct answer is: Random error

A random error occurs in measurements when there are fluctuations or variations that are inherently unpredictable. Even when repeated measurements are taken accurately, these errors arise from unknown or unmeasurable factors that can influence each observation differently. They may be caused by slight changes in environmental conditions, limitations in measuring techniques, or small variances in the conditions under which each measurement is taken. Because such errors are not consistent, they will average out over many observations, which is why they are often considered acceptable in the context of statistical analysis. In contrast, systematic errors are consistent inaccuracies that occur due to a particular flaw in the measurement process, such as calibration issues or a misreading, which can lead to a deviation in one direction. Blunders refer to significant mistakes made during measurement due to human error, and instrument errors involve faults in the equipment used for measurement. Both systematic and instrument errors are correctable, while random errors are less predictable and can only be mitigated through statistical methods.