Transportation Operations LINCS Practice Exam

What technology does a Global Positioning System use to pinpoint device accuracy for planning routes?

1. Satellite

2. Electronic data interchange

3. Internet

4. Transportation management systems

The correct answer is: Satellite

The Global Positioning System (GPS) utilizes satellites to determine its location with high accuracy. GPS technology operates by triangulating signals sent from multiple satellites orbiting the Earth. Each satellite transmits information about its location and the exact time the signal was sent, allowing a GPS receiver to calculate its own position based on the time it takes for the signals to reach it. The more satellites the GPS device can connect to, the more accurate the location data can be. Using satellites is essential for route planning because it enables real-time tracking of vehicles and efficient navigation, providing information such as distance, travel time, and alternative routes. This satellite-based technology is a critical component of modern navigation systems used in transportation operations, enhancing the ability to plan and execute logistics effectively. The other options do not provide the same level of location accuracy or direct route planning capabilities. Electronic data interchange primarily deals with the electronic exchange of business documents. The Internet is a broader communication network that supports various technologies, but it does not specifically dictate location accuracy. Transportation management systems incorporate various data inputs but rely on GPS for real-time location tracking and route optimization.