How To Read A Topographic Map

It would be best if you placed your compass flat on the map with it pointing to the top. Orient your map You have to use your compass and maps north arrow to orient your map. On topographic maps every fifth contour line is in bold called an Index Line where youll find the elevation indicated. Show surface features of the Earth such as mountains valleys craters lakes etc Show elevation height above or below sea level 4.

How To Read A Topographic Map Howstuffworks

The scale can be found in the map legend and usually shows the ratio of map inches to real ground inches.

How To Read A Topographic Map. A topographic map is a two-dimensional map showing both the natural and human-made features of an area. Index Contour Lines when you look at the contour lines you will notice that the fifth contour line is thicker than the rest and you will find the exact elevation somewhere in these lines. The most important thing to remember is that CLOSE contour lines mean STEEP terrain and OPEN contour lines mean FLAT terrain.

The USGS has been the definitive source for US. How to Read a Topographic Map. Then you need to rotate yourself until you see the compasss needle pointing north.

A picture of elevation. What are topographic maps used for. 52 on page 52.

If you are looking at a digital map you can usually click or right-click on a point to get the elevation based on the contour lines. It requires the reader to get acquainted with the legend conventional sign and the colours shown on the sheets. How to read a USGS Topo.

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Reading A Topographic Map

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