2.5: Topographic Maps

Topographic Maps

Maps were some of the first items used to represent the Earth, or a part of it. A topographic map represents topography Links to an external site., the shape and character of the Earth's surface, and depicts both natural and human-made features (Figure 2.5). This type of map uses contour lines Links to an external site. to denote elevation, whereby each contour line connects points of equal elevation. Contours make it possible to measure the height of mountains, depths of the oceans, and steepness of slopes.