One of the most widely used of all maps is the topographic
map. The feature that most distinguishes topographic maps from maps of
other types is the use of contour lines to portray the shape and elevation
of the land. Topographic maps render the three-dimensional ups and downs
of the terrain on a two-dimensional surface.
Topographic maps usually portray both natural and manmade
features. They show and name works of nature including mountains, valleys,
plains, lakes, rivers, and vegetation. They also identify the principal
works of man, such as roads, boundaries, transmission lines, and major
buildings.
The wide range of information provided by topographic maps
make them extremely useful to professional and recreational map users
alike. Topographic maps are used for engineering, energy exploration,
natural resource conservation, environmental management, public works
design, commercial and residential planning, and outdoor activities like
hiking, camping, and fishing.
Topographic maps are different from other maps because they show the
shape and elevation of features of landscape such as mountains and valleys.
Here, you will investigate what the elements of a topographic map are,
and how they are used.
Topographic mapping is a vital resource for a wide range of applications
including:
- emergency and disaster response,
- national defence,
- asset and facilities management,
- demographics analysis,
- environmental monitoring,
- mineral and energy exploration,
- fleet and logistics management,
- graphic presentation of thematic
data,
- infrastructure planning,
- other map production,
- market analysis, navigation and positioning,
- route planning,
- risk assessment,
- surveillance, and
- teaching.
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