Topographic Map Definition Geography

What is a topographic map.

Topographic map definition geography. In topographic maps contour lines are employed to show the changes in elevation on the surface of the earth. Topographic maps show a wide range of human and physical features of the earth. Topographic maps often called topo maps for short are large scale maps often greater than 1 50 000 which means that one inch on the map equals 50 000 inches on the ground. Elevation contours are imaginary lines connecting points having the same elevation on the surface of the land above or below a reference surface which is usually mean sea level.

Topographic maps a topographic map is a type of map that shows heights that you can measure. The distinctive characteristic of a topographic map is the use of elevation contour lines to show the shape of the earth s surface. A traditional topographic map will have all the same elements as a non topographical. Topographic maps are detailed accurate graphic representations of features that appear on the earth s surface.

This is typically done with wavy lines that represent the curves and elevation of the land. Topographic maps refer to maps at large and medium scales that incorporate a massive variety of information. A topographic map is a map that represents the locations of geographical features. A topographic map is a map that indicates the features of the land s surface such as mountains hills and valleys.

In modern mapping a topographic map or topographic chart is a type of map characterized by large scale detail and quantitative representation of relief usually using contour lines connecting points of equal elevation but historically using a variety of methods. They are very detailed and are often produced on large sheets of paper.