Final answer:
A township in the rectangular survey system contains 36 square miles, divided into 36 one-square-mile sections. This method introduced by Thomas Jefferson helped to standardize land distribution.
Step-by-step explanation:
A township in the rectangular survey system always contains a total area of 36 square miles, which is further subdivided into 36 sections of one square mile each, or 640 acres per section. Thomas Jefferson introduced the township and range system to replace the less orderly metes and bounds system. This rectangular grid system helped to organize settlements in the new territory by providing a consistent method for surveying and selling land, encouraging a balanced development of yeoman farms.