1. RULES of
Contour Mapping

2. TOPOGRAPHY TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS
The study of the shapes and features of the Earth’s surface.
TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS
Map showing 3-dimensional shape and elevation of land in 2-dimensions
ELEVATION
Height above sea level

3. #1. A contour line represents a single equal elevation.
All points on the same contour line have the same elevation. C D A B

4. Commonly, every 5th line
is darker and the elevation shown.
This is the
index
contour.

5. #2. Where one closed contour line surrounds another,
the inner contour line
represents the higher elevation .

6. This is a contour map of a mountain.

7. #3. Elevation is determined by the contour line interval.
Question:
What is the contour line interval here?

8. #4. Closely spaced contour lines =steep slope
#4. Closely spaced contour lines =steep slope. Widely spaced contour lines =gentle slope.

10. #5. Where a contour line crosses a stream or river, the contour line bends to form a “V” that points upstream. This is called the Rule of V’s

11. In what direction is the river flowing?

12. #6. Depressions are shown using hachure contour lines

13. The hachures point into the depression. (Hachures = short dashes)

14. A hachured contour line, lying between two different contour lines, is the same elevation as the lower contour line.
Count up
Count down
Contour
Elevation
Repeats