An existing rectangular parcel of land was measured many
years ago with a Gunter's chain and was found to contain 40 ac. The original
surveyor noted later that the chain used to make the measurements was one link
too short. Assuming that the error was evenly distributed throughout the
measuring, what was the area of the parcel?
A. 39.20
ac
B. 39.60 ac
C. 40.40 ac
D. 40.80
ac
Solution:Although the
dimensions of the rectangle are not known, the error can be calculated. The
original surveyor measured the length, x, and depth, y, of the rectangle and
found that xy = 40 acres. Since the chain was missing one of its 100 links,
however, the length was actually 0.99x and the depth 0.99y. Therefore, the
correct area is
A = (0.99x)(0.99y) = 0.9801xy
=
(0.9801)(40)
= 39.20 ac
The same result will be
found if the parcel is presumed to be rectangular but not square.
The answer is (A).
This is problem 15(2-3) from the NEW third edition of
“Surveying Solved Problems for the FS and PS Exams” by Jan Van Sickle, PLS
(formerly "1001 Solved Surveying Fundamentals Problems"). Reprinted
with permission from “Surveying Solved Problems for the FS and PS Exams” by Jan
Van Sickle, PLS (2008 Professional Publications Inc.). For details on this and
other FLS exam-prep books, call 800/426-1178 or visitwww.ppi2pass.com.
Problem of the Week: October 3rd
October 3, 2012
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