What defines a principal meridian in the context of land surveying?

A principal meridian is defined as a north-south line that serves as a reference point in land surveying. These meridians are established as part of the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) in the United States, which helps to create a grid system for defining land parcels. Each principal meridian is paired with a baseline, which is an east-west line, to facilitate the systematic division of land into townships and sections.

The significance of the principal meridian lies in its role in locating and describing specific tracts of land. Surveyors use these lines to determine legal descriptions and boundaries. By referencing the principal meridian, they can provide clear and precise information about the location of any given parcel of land.

The other options relate to features or concepts within land surveying, but they do not accurately describe what a principal meridian entails. Understanding the definition of a principal meridian is essential for anyone involved in real estate or land appraisal, as it contributes to effective navigation and identification of land boundaries.