Problem: Surveying Instruments and Procedures: Taping

Problem: Surveying Instruments and Procedures: Taping

Any unsupported portion of a steel tape sags in an arc known by which of the following names?

(A) a cycloid
(B) a parabola
(C) a helical arc
(D) a catenary

This is problem 51(6-38) from the new second edition of 1001 Solved Surveying Problems by Jan Van Sickle. Reprinted with permission from 1001 Solved Surveying Problems by Jan Van Sickle (1997, 728 pp., Professional Publications Inc.). For details on this and other FLS exam-prep books, call 800/426-1178 or visit www.ppi2pass.com.

Answer: D

A steel tape not supported throughout its length will assume the form of a catenary.