NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes 'sag' in measurements?

1. Excessive pull on the tape

2. A natural curve in the tape due to weight

3. Measurement taken at too steep an angle

4. A slackness in the tape from the ground position

The correct answer is: A natural curve in the tape due to weight

The term 'sag' in the context of measurements refers to the natural curve that occurs in a tape measure or surveying tape due to its weight. When a tape is suspended between two points, gravity causes it to bend or curve downward, creating a 'sag.' This phenomenon can affect the accuracy of measurements if not accounted for, as the distance measured along the curved tape does not represent a straight-line distance between the two points. Understanding this is crucial in construction and surveying, as precise measurements are vital for ensuring the integrity of structures and the accuracy of project layouts. Proper techniques, such as holding the tape taut or using leveling instruments, can help mitigate the effects of sag during measurements.