Topographic Maps

Definition of a Topographic Map

Graphically show the contour of the land Helps the reader identify physical features uses lines to show elevation

How to read a map? (4 things)

Orientation (which way is up) Title (is it the right place) Scale (how far do I have to go) Key/Legend (what does that symbol mean)

A topographic map is

a map that uses lines to show elevation

spur

bumps on the side of a hill

Every contour line eventually

closes against itself

The difference in value between 2 contour lines is the

contour interval

A _______________ is a side view of a particular area.

cross section

index contours

darker than the others usually every 5th line elevation usually shown

The __________ can be determined by estimating the distance between contour lines.

elevation

Closed depressions are shown by

hachures

the line that is shaded darker than the rest is the

index contour

hachure marks

marks that show depressions at the top of a volcano/mountain

The farther apart the contour lines the ______ the slope

more gradual

Definition of a Map

represents place or space represents a 3D thing on a flat surface much smaller than what it represents

The zero contour line is

sea level

The closer the contour lines the ______ the slope

steeper

direction arrow

the arrow that is not inside the bezel that is bigger than the other arrows

edge

the edge of the compass

Bezel

the part on a compass that you can turn around

north arrow

the red arrow that points north

Universal transverse mercator

the system card to help plot points

Contour lines form _____ when they cross strams or valleys. These _____ point _____ or __________.

v's v's upstream up the valley

reentrant

where a contour line crosses a stream or a valley, the contour bends to form a "v" that points upstream or up the valley