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Topographic Maps. An introduction. Topographic Maps. These are specialized maps which show the relief (highs and lows) of the Earth’s surface. The relief is shown with iso lines (iso = same) called contour lines . . contour lines.
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Topographic Maps An introduction
Topographic Maps • These are specialized maps which show the relief (highs and lows) of the Earth’s surface. • The relief is shown with isolines (iso = same) called contour lines.
contour lines • These are lines that connect points of the same elevation. • They also show the shape of the land. • The difference in elevation between two consecutive contour lines is called the contour interval. This distance is usually noted on the map.
Index contours • There are dark, thick contour lines called index contours. • These are contour lines that have the elevation noted on them (these are useful when trying to determine the contour interval if it is not noted on the map).
Landforms on Contour Maps • The steepness of an area is show by the closeness of the contour lines. The closer the contour lines are together, the steeper the area (cliff, etc.). When the contour lines are spread out, the land is relatively flat. • A closed circle after a series of increasing contour lines shows the top of a hill or mountain.
Landforms on Contour Maps • When a contour line crosses a stream or river, the contour line bends and forms a “V” shape (see diagram). The point of the “V” shows the directionthat the water is coming from. • The slope or gradient of the hill can be determined by using a contour map (Reference Tables).
