MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

When using the triangulation method to measure an object, how many fixed reference points from how many objects are required?

1. 1, movable

2. 2, fixed

3. 2, movable

4. 3, fixed

The correct answer is: 2, fixed

The triangulation method is a surveying and measurement technique that involves determining the location of a point by forming triangles to it from known points. To accurately measure an object using this method, it is essential to have fixed reference points that are stable and unchanging. In the context of this question, having two fixed reference points is necessary for defining a precise triangle. These fixed points create a baseline from which measurements to the object can be made. As the angles from the two reference points to the unknown point are measured, the exact location of the object can be determined through geometric calculations. Using movable objects as reference points would introduce variability and uncertainty in the measurements since their positions could change during the measurement process, leading to inaccuracies. Thus, the requirement for two fixed points ensures that the measurements are reliable and can be replicated, which is critical in the triangulation process.