LSIT Mathematics for Surveying — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What trigonometric function relates opposite side to hypotenuse?
- Sine (Correct answer)
- Cosine
- Tangent
- Cotangent
Correct answer: Sine
Sine = opposite / hypotenuse in a right triangle.
Question 2: What is the law of cosines used for in surveying?
- Solving triangles when you know two sides and the included angle or three sides (Correct answer)
- Only right triangles
- Only for area calculation
- Only for bearing conversion
Correct answer: Solving triangles when you know two sides and the included angle or three sides
This law works for any triangle, not just right triangles.
Question 3: How do you convert bearings to azimuths?
- NE bearings equal the bearing angle; SE bearings = 180 minus bearing; SW = 180 plus bearing; NW = 360 minus bearing (Correct answer)
- They are the same
- Subtract 90
- Multiply by 2
Correct answer: NE bearings equal the bearing angle; SE bearings = 180 minus bearing; SW = 180 plus bearing; NW = 360 minus bearing
The conversion depends on the quadrant of the bearing.
Question 4: What is the formula for slope distance to horizontal distance?
- HD = SD × cos(vertical angle) (Correct answer)
- HD = SD × sin(vertical angle)
- HD = SD + elevation
- HD = SD / 2
Correct answer: HD = SD × cos(vertical angle)
Cosine of the vertical angle converts slope to horizontal.
Question 5: What is coordinate geometry (COGO)?
- Mathematical computation of coordinates, areas, distances, and directions from survey data (Correct answer)
- A computer brand
- A type of GPS
- A drafting tool
Correct answer: Mathematical computation of coordinates, areas, distances, and directions from survey data
Mathematical computations from survey data produce coordinates.
Question 6: How is area calculated using the coordinate method?
- Sum of cross products of coordinates divided by 2 (Correct answer)
- Length times width only
- Counting grid squares
- Measuring with a ruler on a map
Correct answer: Sum of cross products of coordinates divided by 2
Cross-multiplication of coordinates produces precise area.
LSIT Mathematics for Surveying
What trigonometric function relates opposite side to hypotenuse?