Which of the following describes how systematic errors affect survey results?

Systematic errors introduce a consistent bias in the measurements, which means that they are not random in nature. Such errors lead to consistent deviations from the true value in the same direction. For example, if a systematic error is present in a measuring instrument, all measurements taken will be skewed in a particular way, whether that be consistently higher or consistently lower than the actual value.

This distinguishing feature of systematic errors is crucial for survey results because it impacts the reliability and accuracy of the data collected. Unlike random errors, which can fluctuate and average out over multiple measurements, systematic errors require correction methods to adjust the data to reflect true values accurately. Successful surveying hinges on identifying and mitigating these systematic errors to ensure precise outcomes.

While options mentioning variability in errors, ease of correction, and occurrences only during calibration might seem relevant, they don't capture the essence of how systematic errors influence measurements. Systematic errors consistently alter measurements, making it essential for surveyors to account for them in their calculations and analyses.