Cuts and fills on a map describe what about a roadway project?

• A. Horizontal distances between surveys
• B. Changes to elevation created by removing or adding material
• C. Road curvature and alignment
• D. Locations of old roads

Answer: (B)

Cuts and fills describe elevation changes created by earthwork for a roadway project. A cut means removing earth to lower the ground to the desired grade, while a fill means adding material to raise the ground where the terrain is too low. On maps and plans, these indications show where material must be moved, which drives how much earthwork is needed, affects drainage and slope stability, and helps estimate cost. In short, cuts and fills represent vertical changes in the surface, not the horizontal alignment, curvature, or presence of old roads.