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Topographic Maps

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8 views

Topographic Maps

Uploaded by

xovof51178
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Central University of Jharkhand

Department of Geology

An Presentation
On
Toposheets & Geological Map reading

By,
To,
PINTU KUMAR
Dr. Sagar Kumar swain Reg. No.: 24380402005
Assistant Professor M.Sc. 1st Semester
Department of Geology Department of Geology
Session: 2024-2026
What is a topographic map?
 A topographic map, also known as a
contour map, is a map that shows
the shape of the land using contour
line.
 It is a map that shows and elevation
field, meaning how high and low the
ground is in relation to sea level.
What are contour lines?
 Contour lines are lines that connect
points that are of the same elevation.
 They show the exact elevation, the
shape of the land, and the steepness
of the land’s slope.
 Contour lines never touch or cross.
Other Topographic Terms
 Map scale – compares distances on
the map with distances on earth.
 Legend – explains symbols used on
the map.
 Index contours – contour lines that
are labeled to help you find the
contour interval.
What is a contour interval?
 A contour interval is the difference in
elevation between two contour lines
that are side by side.
 Remember that a contour interval is
not the distance between the two
lines – to get the distance you need
to use the map scale.
What if my contour lines are close
together?
 If the contour lines are close
together, then that indicates that
area has a steep slope.
What if my contour lines are far
apart?
 If the contour lines are far apart,
then that indicates the land has a
gentle slope (low slope).
What do the dark colored contour
lines mean?
 The dark colored contour lines
represent every fifth contour line to
make it easier to read the map.
What do depressions in the map
look like?
 A depression, such as the inside of a
dead volcano, is represented by
Hachure lines.
 Hachure lines are regular contour
lines with small segments sticking
out from it.
 The first hachure line is at the same
elevation as the contour line before
it.
More on Contour Lines
 Contour lines form V’s that point
upstream when they cross a stream.
 It is important to remember that they
point in the opposite direction as the
flow of water.
What do the colors on the
topographic map represent?
 Blue lines/shapes - represent water
features, such as streams and lakes.
 Brown – contour lines
 Black – Roads, buildings, railroads,
other man made objects.
 Green – Woodland areas
 Red - Highways
Now that I know what a topographic
map is, how do I read it?
 First determine the contour interval
(the distance between each contour
line)
 Then determine the map scale
(usually at the bottom of the map)
 Identify any hills or depressions
 Use the legend to identify man made
features.

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