Topographic map
Large-scale map showing relief via contour lines.
Eric Gaba ( Sting - fr:Sting ) · CC BY-SA 3.0
A topographic map is a type of map characterized by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief features, usually using contour lines. Traditional definitions require it to show both natural and artificial features, and it is typically based on a systematic observation published as a map series. Topographic maps are distinguished from smaller-scale chorographic maps, planimetric maps that do not show elevations, and thematic maps that focus on specific topics.
- common scale for international map
- 1:1 million
- modern technique
- lidar and remote sensing
Lore & Background
Topographic maps are based on topographical surveys, which at large scales show a variety of elevations and landforms, in contrast to older cadastral surveys that primarily show property boundaries.
Reader's Guide
Topographic maps have many uses: geographic planning, Earth sciences, mining, civil engineering, and recreational activities such as hiking and orienteering. They require practice to read, including interpreting contour lines to infer landforms like cliffs and ridges. By the 1980s, centralized printing began to be superseded by digital databases like TIGER and digital elevation models (DEM), which facilitated geographic information systems and made the Global Positioning System more useful. These datasets were in the public domain, freely usable without fees.
Did You Know?
- Topographic maps are also commonly called contour maps or topo maps.
- In the United States, they are often called quads or quadrangles, organized by a strict 7.5-minute grid.
- Most topographic maps were prepared using photogrammetric interpretation of aerial photography with a stereoplotter.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Topographic map?
Topographic map is a large-scale cartographic work that quantifies the shape of the land through contour lines and other relief symbols. It is set apart from planimetric maps (which omit elevation) and thematic maps (which address a single topic) by its requirement to depict both natural and man-made features at a detailed scale.
What are Topographic map's powers or role?
Its core ability is to translate three-dimensional terrain into a flat sheet using contour lines, spot elevations, and shading to convey relief. It also records artificial features such as roads and buildings, making it a comprehensive landscape record rather than a single-subject diagram.
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