What is a geodetic survey best defined as?

A geodetic survey is fundamentally characterized by its method of accounting for the earth's curvature. This approach is essential in achieving precise measurements over large areas, as it incorporates the geometric figure of the Earth—an oblate spheroid—into the survey calculations. By considering the curvature, geodetic surveys provide a more accurate representation of distances and angles that would otherwise be distorted if the Earth's curvature were ignored.

This accuracy is crucial for a variety of applications, such as mapping, navigation, and construction, where even slight discrepancies can accumulate into significant errors. The use of geodetic principles allows surveyors to establish reference frameworks that can be utilized in extensive projects across varying terrains and geographical features.

In contrast, other methods that may neglect the Earth's curvature typically apply to smaller, local surveys where such considerations may not significantly affect the outcome, but these do not fall under the definition of a geodetic survey. Thus, the correct answer highlights the essential aspect of geodetic surveys in accounting for the curvature of the Earth, which is vital for accurate and reliable data collection over vast distances.