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

(A) Cycloid

(B) Parabola

(C) Helical arc

(D) Catenary

The answer is (D)

This is problem 47 (6-8) 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 visit www.ppi2pass.com.