Topographic Maps
 Shows the shape of the Earth’s surface by using contour
lines.
 A topographic map shows the three dimensional features of
an area.
How do Maps Show Topography?
• A contour line is a line that connects points of equal
elevation.
• A contour interval is the change in elevation from one
contour line to the next. It is always the same for a given
map.
• Lines represent contours.
• Closely spaced contour lines indicate steep slopes.
• Widely spaced contour lines indicate gentle slopes or
relatively flat areas.
• A contour line that forms a closed loop with no other
contour lines inside indicates a hilltop.
• Contour lines form “V” shapes in streams. The closed end of
the “V” points upstream.