What principle governs the usage of longitude and latitude in land descriptions?

The rectangular survey system is the principle that governs the usage of longitude and latitude in land descriptions. This method, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), was developed to facilitate the division and sale of land in the United States, particularly in areas west of the original thirteen colonies.

In the rectangular survey system, land is divided into a grid formed by a series of principal meridians (vertical lines running north-south) and base lines (horizontal lines running east-west). Each area is further divided into townships and sections, which allows for precise identification of land parcels based on their coordinates. This system is particularly effective for creating uniformity in land descriptions, which is essential for property transactions, legal documentation, and real estate management.

This contrasts with other land description methods. For example, the metes and bounds system relies on physical landmarks rather than coordinates and is often more subjective in nature. The public domain system refers to government policies regarding land ownership and administration, not a method of land description. The land grant system pertains to historical practices of granting land titles rather than the systematic surveying and description of land.