Topo Maps

What are Topo Maps used for?

Topo Maps are used to navigate forests and for understanding elevational change.

What do contour lines indicate on a map?

Contour lines indicate equal elevation.

What do compacted contour lines signify?

The more compacted the contour lines, the steeper the slope.

What color are contour lines typically represented in?

Contour lines are typically represented in red.

What is an Index line on a topographic map?

Index lines are bold lines that have printed elevation above sea level.

What happens to water in topographic maps?

Water flows into low spots and moves downstream.

What does it mean when the point of the 'V' in a contour line is pointing up?

It indicates a valley, while the point of the 'V' pointing down indicates a ridge.

What is the size of a township?

A township is a 6 miles by 6 miles square.

What is the representative fraction of a map?

It indicates the scale of the map, such as 1:100,000.

What does a grade of 1 inch equal in feet?

1 inch equals 387 feet.

What does the equation for Gradient represent?

Gradient represents the ratio of elevation change to distance.

What is the definition of slope in topography?

Slope is calculated as elevation change divided by distance.