MCQ Surveying Flashcards

A vertical curve connects a +3.5% grade to a –2.0% grade. The algebraic difference in grades (A) is:

Answer: +5.5%

A = g2 – g1 = –2.0% – (+3.5%) = –5.5%; the absolute value |A| = 5.5%, and in parabolic curve design A is typically taken as |g2 – g1| = 5.5%.

Which survey method is most appropriate for establishing precise horizontal control over a large area using angle and distance measurements between interconnected stations?

Answer: Traverse survey

A traverse survey uses sequential angle and distance measurements between connected stations and is the standard method for horizontal control networks over large areas.

Atmospheric refraction causes a surveyed line of sight to be bent:

Answer: Downward, toward the Earth's surface

Because air density increases near the Earth's surface, lines of sight refract (bend) downward, making objects appear slightly higher than they truly are.

A boundary surveyor discovers a junior deed that conflicts with a senior deed. Under common law priorities of boundary evidence, the junior deed:

Answer: Is subordinate to the senior deed

Under the 'first in time, first in right' doctrine, a senior (earlier) deed has legal priority over a junior (later) deed when boundaries conflict.

Which of the following is the primary reason GPS heights (ellipsoidal heights) differ from leveled heights?

Answer: The geoid and reference ellipsoid do not coincide

GPS measures height above the mathematical ellipsoid (h), while leveled heights are above the geoid (H); the difference is the geoid-ellipsoid separation N (h = H + N).

A 5-second theodolite has a direct reading of 47°22'35" and a reverse (face-right) reading of 227°22'55". The mean angle and any collimation error (c) are:

Answer: Mean = 47°22'45", c = +5"

Mean = (DR + FL – 180°) / 2 = (47°22'35" + 47°22'55") / 2 = 47°22'45"; collimation error c = (FL – DR – 180°) / 2 = (20") / 2 = +10" → half-angle error = +5".

In construction staking, a 'cut' of 3.2 ft on a grade stake means the contractor must:

Answer: Excavate 3.2 ft of material to reach design grade

A 'cut' indicates the existing ground is above design grade, so earthwork must be excavated (cut) by the specified amount to reach the design elevation.