NCEES MCQ Surveying 5

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

+5.5%

Answer

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%.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Traverse survey

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Downward, toward the Earth's surface

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Is subordinate to the senior deed

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

The geoid and reference ellipsoid do not coincide

Answer

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).

NCEES Practice Test

NCEES Practice Test

NCEES MCQ Surveying 5