Topography and Mapping Terms

Front

Topography

Back

A description of surface features of land.

Front

Topographic Map

Back

A map that shows the surface features of an area.

Front

Contour Line

Back

A line on the map joining points of the same elevation.

Front

Relief

Back

The difference in elevation between the highest and lowest parts of an area.

Front

Contour Interval

Back

Difference in elevation between contour lines.

Front

Index Contour

Back

A contour line that includes an elevation label.

Front

Scale

Back

A measuring line that shows the distances on a map.

Front

Slope

Back

Steepness of a hill.

Front

GPS

Back

Global Positioning System; uses a system of satellites, tracking stations, and receivers to determine precise absolute locations on earth.

Front

Elevation

Back

Height above sea level.