What term describes figures that have the same size and shape?

The term that describes figures that have the same size and shape is "congruent." Congruent figures are those that can be perfectly superimposed over one another, meaning every corresponding side and angle is equal in measure. This concept is fundamental in geometry and is frequently applied in various fields, including surveying, where precise measurements are crucial.

In contrast, "similar" figures have the same shape but may differ in size; they maintain proportional dimensions but are not identical in scale. "Equivalent" typically relates to quantities or values being equal rather than directly addressing geometric figures. "Identical" can suggest a perfect match; however, it is often used in a broader context and does not specifically refer to the mathematical properties regarding congruence.

Understanding congruence is critical in surveying as it helps in verifying the accuracy of measurements and establishing relationships between different geometric entities.