Mapping the Earth's Surface

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the Earth's surface features, measuring techniques, and mapping.

Elevation

The measurement of vertical distance away from sea level.

Topography

The study of elevation and the arrangement of the physical features of the Earth.

Relief

The difference in highest and lowest elevations between points.

Topographic Map

A representation of terrain showing elevation with contour lines.

Contour Line

A line on a map connecting points of equal elevation.

Landform

A natural feature of the Earth's surface.

Mountain

A landform characterized by high elevation and high relief.

Mountain Range

A group of mountains that are of the same age and geological material.

Plateau

A flat area of high elevation.

Plain

A large area of flat land with little relief.

Crater

A circular depression in the surface caused by a force acting on the Earth.

Valley

A long depression in the Earth’s surface formed by erosional processes.

Hemispheres

Half of the Earth, usually divided into Northern and Southern, or Eastern and Western.

Longitude

The vertical lines on a map/globe measured east and west of the Prime Meridian.

Latitude

The horizontal lines on a map/globe measured north and south of the Equator.

G.P.S.

Global Positioning System, which uses satellites to determine location by latitude and longitude.

Coordinates

A set of values that show an exact position on Earth using latitude and longitude.

Time Zones

Regions of the Earth that have the same standard time.