What does the term "projected" mean as it relates to the state plane coordinate system?

In the context of the state plane coordinate system, the term "projected" refers to how the three-dimensional surface of the Earth is represented in two dimensions. This projection involves mathematical transformations that account for the Earth's curvature to ensure that locations on the spherical surface are accurately represented on a flat plane.

The state plane coordinate system uses specific projection methods, such as the Lambert Conformal Conic or Transverse Mercator, to minimize distortions of area, shape, distance, and direction for the region being mapped. These projections are designed for their respective zones, and they take into consideration the curvature of the Earth to maintain accuracy for surveying purposes.

Choosing projected coordinates is essential because it allows surveyors to work with a flat representation of a curved surface, making calculations and measurements easier and more manageable without significant errors introduced by the Earth’s curvature. Therefore, the correct understanding of "projected" in this context directly relates to the need to consider the Earth’s curvature during the transformation from three-dimensional coordinates to two-dimensional representations used in mapping and surveying.