Topographical Maps

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to map reading skills and various types of maps.

Latitude

Imaginary lines that run parallel to the Equator and measure distance north or south of it.

Longitude

Imaginary lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole and measure distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.

Topographic Map

A map that shows elevation changes and landforms using contour lines.

Contour Lines

Lines on a map that connect points of equal elevation.

Gradient

A measure of the steepness of a slope, calculated as relief over distance.

Benchmark

A mark on a map indicating the exact elevation of a location.

Relief

The amount of change in elevation between two points on a map.

Map Scale

A ratio or bar that indicates the relationship between distance on the map and actual distance in reality.

Political Map

A map that shows boundaries of countries, states, and other political features.

Physical Map

A map that shows natural landforms and lakes without political features.

Contour Interval

The difference in elevation between two adjacent contour lines.

Azimuth

A horizontal angle measured from a reference direction, often used in navigation.

Quadrangle Map

A map that shows a specific area bounded by specific degrees of latitude and longitude.

Map Legend

A key that explains the symbols and features used on the map.

FEMA Flood Map

A map that identifies areas at risk for flooding, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Map Ratios

A way to express scale on a map, showing the proportion between map measurements and real-world distances.