General Contractor Practice Exam

Which tool is used to measure both horizontal and vertical measurements accurately?

1. Transit or Theodolite

2. Leveling instrument

3. Measuring tape

4. Laser rangefinder

The correct answer is: Transit or Theodolite

The chosen tool, the transit or theodolite, is specifically designed for measuring both horizontal and vertical angles with precision. This capability makes it essential for various construction and surveying tasks. A transit typically includes a telescope for sighting and rotating it in both the horizontal and vertical planes, enabling accurate angle measurements essential for determining elevations and leveling grade points. The other tools mentioned have different primary functions. A leveling instrument primarily focuses on establishing a horizontal plane, making it effective for checking level but not measuring vertical angles directly. Measuring tape is a straightforward linear measurement tool used for distances but does not provide any angular measurements. Lastly, a laser rangefinder is excellent for measuring distance quickly and can often determine horizontal distances, but it does not inherently measure angles like a transit or theodolite does. Hence, while all the tools serve useful purposes in their own right, the transit or theodolite stands out for its dual capability in handling both horizontal and vertical measurements accurately.