What is the term for a column of land six miles wide in a north-south direction?

The correct term for a column of land that measures six miles wide in a north-south direction is known as a "Range." In the context of the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), a range is defined as a vertical column of townships, extending north and south. Each township in this system is a square that is typically six miles on each side, making ranges essential for the organized division of land in the United States, particularly in the western states.

Understanding this terminology is crucial for real estate professionals, as it is part of the legal description of properties and helps in identifying specific land parcels. The concept of a range helps establish the geographic location of a property in relation to other townships and ranges, allowing for precise location and mapping.

Other terms mentioned in the options refer to different aspects of land division. A lot generally refers to a smaller, specific piece of land, typically used in urban contexts. A parcel refers to any defined piece of land, but it does not specifically denote the six-mile width characteristic of a range. A section, on the other hand, is a further subdivision within a township that is typically one square mile.