CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

When comparing two maps with different scales, what can be stated regarding an engineering map at 1 in = 100 ft and a land subdivision map at 1 in = 1 mile?

1. Both maps have a large scale.

2. The engineering map has the larger scale of the two.

3. Both maps have a small scale.

4. The land subdivision map has the larger scale of the two.

The correct answer is: The engineering map has the larger scale of the two.

The engineering map at a scale of 1 inch equals 100 feet is designed to represent a smaller area in greater detail, which is characteristic of a larger scale map. A larger scale means that the features on the map are represented more closely to their actual size. In this case, 1 inch on the engineering map corresponds to a relatively smaller distance in real life, allowing for more detailed work, often necessary for engineering purposes. On the other hand, the land subdivision map at a scale of 1 inch equals 1 mile covers a much broader area, which reduces the level of detail visible on that map. This scale implies that 1 inch represents a significant distance in reality, classifying it as a smaller scale map compared to the engineering map. In summary, the engineering map offers a larger scale due to its ability to show more detail within a smaller geographic area, making it more precise for engineering applications, whereas the land subdivision map is broader and less detailed.