USA Contour Line Interpretation Quiz
Slope, valleys, ridges (10 questions).
USA Contour Line Interpretation Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Understanding contour lines is fundamental to interpreting topographic maps and visualizing terrain. This quiz challenges your knowledge of how these lines depict elevation, slope, and landforms like valleys and ridges across the diverse landscapes of the USA. Master the basics of contour line interpretation to better comprehend geographical features.
Key Concepts in Contour Line Interpretation
Closely spaced contours mean steep slopes; widely spaced contours indicate gentle slopes.
Contour lines form V-shapes pointing upstream when crossing a valley or stream.
Contour lines form V-shapes pointing downstream (or U-shapes) when crossing a ridge, with the point of the V/U pointing towards lower elevation.
All points on a single contour line have the same elevation. Contour lines never cross each other.
Key Takeaways
- Contour Interval: The vertical distance between adjacent contour lines, constant for a given map.
- Index Contours: Every fifth contour line is often thicker and labeled with its elevation for easier reading.
- Slope Gradient: Calculated by dividing the change in elevation by the horizontal distance.
- Water Flow: Water flows perpendicular to contour lines, always from higher to lower elevation.
- Closed Contours: Concentric closed contours represent hills or depressions (hachure marks indicate depressions).
- No Crossing: Contour lines never cross, indicating a single elevation at any point.
- Stream V’s: V-shapes in contour lines crossing streams point upstream, against the direction of water flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of contour lines on a map?
Contour lines are used to represent elevation and the shape of the terrain, showing hills, valleys, slopes, and flat areas.
How can you tell if a slope is steep or gentle using contour lines?
Closely spaced contour lines indicate a steep slope, while widely spaced lines suggest a gentle slope.
What do V-shaped contour lines usually signify?
V-shaped contour lines typically indicate valleys or ridges. If the ‘V’ points upstream (towards higher elevation), it’s a valley or stream. If the ‘V’ points downstream (towards lower elevation), it’s a ridge.
Can contour lines ever cross each other?
No, contour lines never cross each other, except in the rare case of an overhanging cliff or cave entrance, where they might touch or appear to merge. Generally, each line represents a unique elevation.
How do contour lines help determine the direction of water flow?
When contour lines cross a stream or river, they form ‘V’ shapes that always point upstream (towards the source of the water), indicating the opposite direction of water flow.
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