NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying Practice Exam 2025 - Free Surveying Practice Questions and Study Guide

In surveying, "bearing" specifically refers to the direction of a line with respect to a meridian, which is a critical concept in mapping and navigation. Bearings are typically expressed as angles measured from the north or south meridian towards the east or west. This angular measurement helps surveyors communicate the orientation of a boundary line, survey line, or any other significant direction on a map.

Understanding bearings is essential for accurately determining the location of land boundaries, constructing accurate maps, and for any activities that require precise navigation. The bearing system allows for a standardized way to describe angles, facilitating clearer communication among surveyors and other professionals in the field.

The other concepts mentioned do not accurately define "bearing." For instance, while the angle for mapping purposes might seem similar, it does not specifically address the directional aspect related to meridians. The slope of a terrain refers to its incline rather than its directional orientation, and the distance to the next point concerns linear measurement and spatial relationships, rather than angular direction. Therefore, the definition that focuses on the direction of a line with respect to a meridian truly captures what bearing means in the context of surveying.