NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying Practice Exam

What is the primary advantage of natural monuments over artificial ones in surveying?

1. They are less costly

2. They can be easily replicated

3. They provide certainty of location

4. They are recognized internationally

The correct answer is: They provide certainty of location

Natural monuments are stable and permanent features in the landscape, such as trees, rocks, or other geographical features, which can serve as reliable reference points in surveying. The primary advantage of these natural markers is their ability to provide a high degree of certainty regarding their location. Unlike artificial monuments, which can be displaced, destroyed, or modified, natural monuments typically remain constant over time, barring significant environmental changes. By providing a consistent point of reference, natural monuments help maintain the integrity of boundary lines and property surveys. Their inherent permanence allows surveyors to have confidence in the locations they mark, making it easier to establish property lines and resolve disputes. This level of certainty is essential in surveying, where accurate and reliable measurements are crucial for legal and property purposes.