Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

What type of error occurs when the actual position is misrepresented in measurements?

1. Attribute error

2. Systematic error

3. Positional error

4. Random error

The correct answer is: Positional error

Positional error specifically refers to inaccuracies that occur when the actual position of a point is misrepresented in measurements. This type of error arises from various factors, including limitations in measurement equipment, environmental conditions affecting data collection, or human mistakes during the measurement process. Positional errors can lead to significant discrepancies in surveying work, where precise location information is crucial for accurate mapping, construction, or land development. In contrast, other types of errors may not directly relate to the misrepresentation of position. For instance, systematic errors are biases that consistently affect measurements in a predictable way, often stemming from flawed instruments or procedures. Random errors result from unpredictable fluctuations in measurement processes and can vary widely, typically fitting a statistical distribution. Attribute errors refer to inaccuracies in describing characteristics other than position, such as those associated with measurements of attributes in surveys. Thus, while these terms describe various inaccuracies in surveying and measurement, positional error clearly aligns with the concept of misrepresentation in the measurement of locations.