Hi,
I am doing a geology course and I am really struggling with the topography graph. Currently, I am doing a test/quiz that involves me finding out what the contour interval is,the elevations of lines, and so on. I have tried looking back over the information but it is honestly not helping me. If someone could help me, I would be extremely thankful.
You may find something here that will help you.
http://www.google.com/search?q=topographic+graphs&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=4p3JU8vqHoaSyATaroKwAQ&ved=0CBwQsAQ&biw=1920&bih=955
Of course, I'd be glad to help you with understanding topographic graphs and how to find the contour interval and elevations of lines.
A topographic graph, also known as a topographic map or contour map, represents the three-dimensional surface of the Earth on a two-dimensional surface. It shows the elevation of the land using contour lines, which are lines that connect points of equal elevation.
To find the contour interval, which is the vertical distance between contour lines, you can follow these steps:
1. Locate two adjacent contour lines on the map.
2. Identify the elevation of each contour line. Often, the elevations are marked on the lines.
3. Subtract the elevation of the lower contour line from the elevation of the higher contour line.
4. The result is the contour interval.
For example, if one contour line has an elevation of 200 meters and the adjacent contour line has an elevation of 300 meters, then the contour interval would be 100 meters.
To determine the elevations along a particular contour line, you can use the index contour lines as references. Index contour lines are typically labeled with their elevation. The surrounding lines between the index contour lines are known as intermediate contour lines.
To find the elevation of a particular point along a contour line:
1. Locate the point on the contour line.
2. Identify the index contour line that it falls between.
3. Determine the elevation of the index contour line.
4. Estimate the elevation of the point based on its position between the index contour lines. You can do this by dividing the contour interval evenly between the two index contour lines. For example, if the contour interval is 100 meters, and the point is one-third of the way between two index contour lines, you would add one-third of 100 meters to the elevation of the lower index contour line.
Keep in mind that topographic maps may also include other features like rivers, roads, buildings, etc. These can help provide additional context to the landscape.
If you have a specific problem or question regarding a topographic map, feel free to provide more details, and I'll be happy to guide you further.