NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

What is the definition of point of tangency?

1. The start of a curve

2. The endpoint of a curve

3. The highest point on the curve

4. The midpoint of a curve

The correct answer is: The endpoint of a curve

The point of tangency is defined as a specific point where a curve touches a straight line or another curve without crossing it. In the context of highway construction and geometric designs, the point of tangency typically refers to where the curve ends and transitions into a straight line. This point marks the endpoint of the curved path, establishing the connection to the next segment of the roadway. Understanding the point of tangency is crucial for engineers and inspectors, as it helps in determining alignment and ensuring that the transitions between curves and straight sections are smooth and safe for vehicles.