Topographic maps are a powerful tool that unveils the landscape's three-dimensional features on a two-dimensional sheet. These maps utilize contour lines to portray the elevation variations of the land, allowing readers to grasp the lay of the land and its intricate details. Let's delve into what topographic maps are and how to interpret them effectively.
Topography or topographic map is composed of contour lines that connect points of equal elevation on the land, meaning if you physically walked along a contour line, your height above sea level would remain constant.
Topographic maps show lines for certain elevations only. The elevation difference between each line is called the contour interval and can vary depending on the detail required. For example, architect plans for a house may have a 25cm contour interval and a trekking map may have a 5m contour interval. The contour interval is the difference in height between the two lines, not the on-ground distance between the two lines. A…