NGS Earth Science Ch 03 - Section 3: Maps and Computers

How have computers changed map-making?

• They allow mapmakers to store, process, and display data electronically.

• They make maps that are less accurate.

• They make maps using only paper and pencils.

• They eliminate the need for any data sources.

Answer explanation

Computers have revolutionized map-making by enabling mapmakers to store, process, and display data electronically, enhancing accuracy and efficiency. The other options incorrectly suggest limitations or inaccuracies.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-2

What is GPS used for?

• Finding the age of rocks on the Earth's surface.

• Finding the temperature of the Earth's surface.

• Finding the latitude, longitude, and elevation of points on Earth’s surface.

• Finding the color of the Earth's surface.

Answer explanation

GPS is primarily used for determining the latitude, longitude, and elevation of locations on the Earth's surface, making it essential for navigation and mapping.

What are satellite images made up of?

• Numbers and letters.

• Thousands of tiny dots called pixels.

• Lines and shapes.

• Large blocks of color.

Answer explanation

Satellite images are composed of thousands of tiny dots called pixels. Each pixel represents a specific color and intensity, which together form the complete image. This makes 'thousands of tiny dots called pixels' the correct choice.

What is surveying?

• A technique for planting trees.

• A way to predict weather patterns.

• The process of determining distances and elevations using instruments and geometry.

• A method of drawing maps by hand.

Answer explanation

Surveying is defined as the process of determining distances and elevations using instruments and geometry, which is essential for mapping and construction projects.

What do contour lines on a topographic map represent?

• The population density.

• The temperature of the area.

• Points of equal height or elevation.

• Different types of vegetation.

Answer explanation

Contour lines on a topographic map represent points of equal height or elevation, allowing users to visualize the terrain's shape and steepness. This is crucial for understanding landforms and navigating the landscape.

What does a closely spaced contour line indicate?

• A flat area.

• A steep slope.

• A valley.

• A river.

Answer explanation

Closely spaced contour lines indicate a steep slope because they represent a rapid change in elevation over a short horizontal distance. In contrast, flat areas have widely spaced lines.

What is the contour interval?

• The distance between two points on a map.

• The number of colors used on a map.

• The difference in elevation between one contour line and the next.

• The time it takes to draw a map.

Answer explanation

The contour interval is defined as the difference in elevation between one contour line and the next. This helps in understanding the terrain's slope and elevation changes on a map.

What are index contours?

• Lines that are lighter than others.

• Lines that show the direction of the wind.

• Lines that indicate water flow.

• Darker lines labeled with elevation above sea level.

Answer explanation

Index contours are darker lines on a topographic map that are labeled with their elevation above sea level, helping to indicate the height of the terrain. This distinguishes them from regular contour lines, which may not have labels.

What happens to contour lines on a cliff?

• They change color.

• They form a circle.

• They appear to run together.

• They disappear.

Answer explanation

On a cliff, contour lines appear to run together because the steep drop creates a situation where the elevation changes rapidly, making the lines closely spaced and visually converging.

What is the purpose of contouring?

• To determine the shape of an area.

• To find the age of rocks.

• To measure the temperature.

• To calculate the speed of wind.

Answer explanation

The purpose of contouring is to determine the shape of an area by creating contour lines that represent elevation changes. This helps in visualizing the terrain and understanding the landscape.