Contour Intervals On A Topographic Map

The space between contour lines on a topographical map is a contour interval. For instance if the map uses a 20 foot interval there are contour lines at zero 20 40 60 80 and 100 feet.

Point D Is 60 What Is The Contour Interval On The Topographic Map

The contour interval is an even space that represents an increase in elevation.

Contour intervals on a topographic map. Usually there are different contour intervals for the different maps. A contour interval in surveying is the vertical distance or the difference in the elevation between the two contour lines in a topographical map. Before the elevation of any point on the map can be determined the user must know the contour interval for the map he is using.

For the maps on this web site however the contour interval is not listed because we only have parts of topographic maps not the whole map which would include the margin notes. To determine the elevation of a point on the map a. On most maps determining contour interval is easy just look in the margin of the map and find where the contour interval is printed ie.

The contour interval measurement given in the marginal information is the vertical distance between adjacent contour lines. On most maps every fifth contour line shown as a heavier or darker line is an index line or index contour. Knowing how to calculate the contour interval becomes a useful skill.

A maps legend usually identifies the contour interval on the map but sometimes only part of a map is available. Considering the size of the area to be mapped contour intervals are assumed. Contour interval 20 ft.

The contour interval is always indicated somewhere in the margin of the topo map along with other symbols and scales. Also there are always some contours on the map that are printed in a bolder.

Questions Exercise 9 Topographic Maps How Many Contour Lines Would