Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

What does the gradient boundary line of a river represent?

1. It is the highest elevation point of a river

2. It lies between the highest and lowest points of the bank

3. It is halfway between the bed of the stream and the top of the bank

4. It is a fixed point established by state law

The correct answer is: It is halfway between the bed of the stream and the top of the bank

The gradient boundary line of a river is defined as the imaginary line that runs halfway between the bed of the stream and the top of the bank. This boundary is significant in understanding the flow and potential floodplain of the river, as it marks the transition from the active channel of the river to the surrounding area. By identifying this midpoint, surveyors can assess the river's capacity and behavior, particularly in terms of hydrology and land use planning. Regarding the other options, the highest elevation point of a river does not accurately capture the essence of the gradient boundary line, which specifically denotes a midpoint rather than a peak. Similarly, the idea of it lying between the highest and lowest points of the bank is misleading; while it does relate to elevation, it is more specifically defined by the relationship between the riverbed and the bank's top rather than simply being a range. Finally, the option suggesting it as a fixed point established by state law does not correspond to the actual physical definition of a gradient boundary line, which is based on natural topography rather than legal designation.