In fieldcraft, distance is underestimated when 1. the light is brigh

In fieldcraft, distance is underestimated when

  • 1. the light is bright
  • 2. the object is large in relation to its surroundings
  • 3. there is compressed/low-lying ground between the observer and the object
  • 4. looking uphill

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1, 2 and 3 only
3 and 4 only
1, 2 and 4 only
1, 2, 3 and 4
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CISF-AC-EXE – 2024
The correct answer is D because all the conditions listed in the statements contribute to the underestimation of distance in fieldcraft.
– Bright light causes objects to appear closer than they are, leading to underestimation.
– A large object appears closer, especially when there are fewer reference points or its size is disproportionate to typical objects in the environment.
– Compressed or low-lying ground between the observer and the object removes visual references, making the object seem closer.
– Looking uphill makes distances appear shorter due to the foreshortening effect and the effort involved in viewing upwards.
Other factors that can lead to underestimation of distance include looking across water or a valley, looking through clear air, and looking from a height. Factors that lead to overestimation include looking in poor light, looking at a small object, looking across varied ground, and looking downhill.