Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

In a Lambert projection, which lines are equal distance apart?

1. Centrals meridians

2. Straight lines

3. Meridians

4. Standard parallels

The correct answer is: Standard parallels

In a Lambert projection, the lines that are equal distance apart are the standard parallels. A Lambert projection, particularly the Lambert conformal conic projection, preserves angles, which is crucial for navigation and aeronautical charts. The standard parallels are the lines of latitude where the scale of the map is true, meaning there is no distortion at those lines. These parallels are equally spaced, illustrating the principle of preserving distances along these specific lines on the projection. In contrast, central meridians do not maintain a uniform distance from one another across the map; they converge toward the poles. While straight lines may geometrically appear equal in some instances, they do not represent true distances on the globe or the projection itself. Meridians also do not remain equal distance apart as they converge toward the poles, leading to increased spacing as you move away from the equator. Thus, standard parallels are the features that maintain equal spacing in a Lambert projection, making them the correct response in this context.