What does Bearing indicate in surveying?

Bearing in surveying is crucial as it provides a standardized method to communicate the direction of a line. Specifically, bearing indicates the direction of a line relative to a north-south axis, using an acute angle in conjunction with cardinal directions (north, east, south, and west). This method makes it easier for surveyors to describe the orientation of a boundary line or survey line in a clear and precise manner.

For example, a bearing of N45°E means that the line begins at the north and turns 45 degrees toward the east. This precise description allows surveyors to replicate the direction accurately in the field, ensuring consistency and clarity in surveying projects. Using bearings is fundamental for establishing relationships between different survey lines and for ensuring that all points in a survey can be accurately re-located.

The other options pertain to different aspects of surveying. While the length of a survey line, elevation of a point, and distance between markers are all essential elements of surveying, they do not define what bearing is. Instead, they represent measurements or characteristics of the physical attributes being surveyed, which is distinct from the directional purpose of bearing.