Graphical check using a pivot station – interpreting intersection of rays When angles to a given pivot station are observed from multiple traverse stations and, upon plotting, the rays to the pivot intersect at a single common point, what does this indicate?

Introduction / Context:
A useful graphical diagnostic in traverse work is to choose a well-defined pivot point visible from several traverse stations. If the plotted rays from these stations to the pivot all meet at one point, some aspects of the work can be considered satisfactory. This question asks you to interpret which part of the surveying process this check validates.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Bearings or angles to a common pivot were observed from multiple stations.
• Rays are plotted from the plotted positions of those stations.
• The plotted rays meet at a single intersection representing the pivot.

Concept / Approach:

Coincidence of all rays at the pivot primarily tests the angular data (bearings/directions) and orientation consistency. Even if station positions are slightly off due to distance errors, properly oriented rays can still converge at the same pivot point because the test depends on directions, not on the absolute accuracy of the station coordinates. Therefore, this check certifies angular observations but not necessarily linear measurements.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Traverse closures that rely on Σlat and Σdep, and base-line comparisons, are needed to confirm distances. The “pivot intersection” test does not guarantee length accuracy but is a standard angular consistency check.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Option B claims linear correctness but angular incorrectness, which contradicts the nature of the test.

Option C is illogical; if angles were wrong, rays would not converge.

Option D overstates the implication; convergence alone cannot certify distances and plotting scale absolutely.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming this single check validates the entire traverse; ignoring the need for linear closure and scale verification; overlooking plotting precision limits that might mask small angular discrepancies.

Final Answer:

Angular measurements are correct, but linear measurements may not be