Colorado Land Surveyor Practice Exam

What does a Benchmark represent in surveying?

1. An elevation point used for comparison

2. A type of survey tool

3. A boundary marker

4. A reference for land ownership

The correct answer is: An elevation point used for comparison

A benchmark in surveying serves as a precisely defined elevation point that allows surveyors to compare and reference other measurements. These points are established using rigorous methods to ensure accuracy, making them vital in establishing heights and depths in a given area. Surveyors use benchmarks to create a consistent and reliable datum for their projects, which is essential for designing infrastructure, mapping terrain, and conducting construction. While other options discuss concepts related to surveying, they do not accurately define a benchmark. A benchmark is not a survey tool, nor is it primarily a boundary marker or a reference for land ownership. Instead, it specifically pertains to a known elevation which can serve as the foundation for further surveying and engineering work.