Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

What is the primary reason for calibrating surveying instruments?

1. To reduce blunders

2. To correct random errors

3. To minimize systematic errors

4. To improve accuracy

The correct answer is: To minimize systematic errors

The primary reason for calibrating surveying instruments is to minimize systematic errors. Systematic errors are consistent, repeatable errors that occur due to a flaw in the measurement process or instrument. These errors can arise from various factors, such as the instrument's design, environmental conditions, or the way measurements are taken. By calibrating instruments regularly, surveyors can ensure that they are providing accurate and reliable readings, as calibration involves comparing measurements against known standards and making necessary adjustments. Calibration helps maintain the integrity of the surveying process, ensuring that systematic deviations are identified and corrected. While reducing blunders and correcting random errors are important aspects of surveying practice, they relate more to operational practices and usage rather than the intrinsic qualities of the instruments themselves. Improving accuracy is an outcome of effective calibration, but the direct focus is on minimizing those systematic errors that would compromise the overall precision of measurements.