1.16.3. Characteristics of contour lines

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does it mean if contour lines form a V-shape pointing upstream?

   Hint

   Think about where water would flow.

2. 2.

   True or False: Contour lines can cross each other.

   Hint

   Consider what this would mean for elevation.

3. 3.

   What do concentric closed contours with decreasing values indicate?

   • A hill
   • A pond
   • A flat area

   Hint

   Think about where water collects.

4. 4.

   True or False: Irregularly spaced contour lines indicate a uniform slope.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the terrain variation!

5. 5.

   Create a topographic map of a fictional area with a hill, a valley, and a pond. Label all contour lines accordingly, and explain your reasoning.

   Hint

   Consider the characteristics of each terrain type discussed.

6. 6.

   Analyze a supplied topographic map image and summarize three distinct features it displays based on contour line patterns.

   Hint

   Look for concentric patterns and spacing of lines.