CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

Which surveying type focuses on the relief and features of the earth's surface?

1. Hydrographic surveying

2. Route surveying

3. Topographic surveying

4. Geological surveying

The correct answer is: Topographic surveying

Topographic surveying is specifically designed to capture the various relief and features of the earth's surface, such as elevation changes, landforms, vegetation, and man-made structures. This type of surveying creates detailed maps that illustrate the terrain's contour and shape, allowing for a clear representation of the physical characteristics of an area. Topographic surveys are critical in various applications, such as land development, construction planning, and environmental management, as they provide essential information about how the land can be used and what natural features need consideration. The detailed contour lines and features depicted in these surveys help professionals understand how drainage patterns work and how different elevations may impact construction and land use. In contrast, hydrographic surveying focuses specifically on bodies of water, assessing depths and features under the water's surface, while geological surveying is concerned with the underlying geological formations and their properties. Route surveying is primarily about the alignment and grading required for roads, pipelines, or railroads, rather than the general relief of the earth’s surface. Thus, topographic surveying is distinctly centered on mapping the earth's surface features and their elevations, making it the correct choice for this question.