Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

What is avulsion?

1. The slow rise of the water level

2. The sudden change in the course of a river or stream

3. Gradual loss of land due to erosion

4. The formation of land from alluvium

The correct answer is: The sudden change in the course of a river or stream

Avulsion refers specifically to a sudden and often drastic change in the course of a river or stream. This phenomenon typically occurs when a river or stream is redirected by events such as flooding, landslides, or human intervention, leading to the rapid alteration of its banks and course. This can result in significant changes to land ownership and property lines, especially in legal terms, as the natural flow of water can affect how boundaries are established. In terms of broader context, avulsion is distinct from other processes; for instance, the slow rise of water levels or gradual erosion represent more gradual processes that influence land over time, while the creation of land from alluvium relates to the deposition of sediment in a way that builds up areas, typically without an immediate course change. Understanding avulsion is crucial in fields like surveying and land management, as it has implications for property rights, environmental assessments, and managing waterways.