American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

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What is the scale of a USGS orthophoto?

1:10,000
1:24,000
1:12,000
1:50,000

The correct answer is: 1:12,000

The scale of a USGS orthophoto is typically 1:24,000. This scale means that one unit of measurement on the map corresponds to 24,000 of the same units on the ground, making it a common scale used for topographic maps and various aerial imagery provided by the US Geological Survey. Orthophotos are corrected for distortion to provide an accurate representation of the land surface and maintain consistent scale across the photo. The 1:24,000 scale is particularly useful for providing detailed information necessary for urban planning, environmental studies, and land use management. Other options, while they represent possible scales used in various mapping contexts, do not align with the standard scale of USGS orthophotos. The scale of 1:10,000, for example, would provide a more detailed view suitable for city planning, whereas 1:50,000 would cover a larger area with less detail, typically used for regional planning. Understanding these scales helps planners make informed decisions based on the context of the mapping and the level of detail required for their analysis.