CONTOURMAP Meaning and
Definition
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A contour map is a graphical representation of the topography or relief of a particular area, typically created by cartographers, geographers, or geologists. It provides a visual depiction of the elevation and shape of the Earth's surface, showcasing the changes in height and contours of the terrain.
Contour maps are created by tracing lines of equal elevation, called contour lines, which connect points that share the same altitude above a reference point, commonly sea level. These contour lines are drawn at regular intervals, known as contour intervals, and by analyzing their patterns, one can determine the steepness or gentleness of slopes, valleys, mountains, or depressions within the mapped area. The spacing between the contour lines represents the elevation's rate of change; closer lines indicate steeper slopes, while widely spaced lines represent flatter terrain.
Topographic maps, one of the most common types of contour maps, often include additional information such as rivers, vegetation, man-made structures, and landmarks, providing a comprehensive understanding of the landscape. These maps serve various purposes, including navigation, land surveying, urban planning, geological studies, and outdoor activities like hiking or mountaineering.
Contour maps are vital tools in understanding and visualizing the physical features and characteristics of an area, allowing researchers, planners, adventurers, and individuals to comprehend the complexity of the Earth's surface and make informed decisions based on its topography.
Common Misspellings for CONTOURMAP
- xontourmap
- vontourmap
- fontourmap
- dontourmap
- cintourmap
- ckntourmap
- clntourmap
- cpntourmap
- c0ntourmap
- c9ntourmap
- cobtourmap
- comtourmap
- cojtourmap
- cohtourmap
- conrourmap
- confourmap
- congourmap
- conyourmap
- con6ourmap
- con5ourmap
Etymology of CONTOURMAP
The word "contourmap" is a combination of two terms: "contour" and "map".
1. "Contour" derives from the French word "contourner", meaning "to go around" or "to trace a path". It entered the English language in the early 17th century, referring to the outline or shape of an object or landform.
2. "Map" originates from the Latin word "mappa", meaning "napkin" or "cloth". In ancient times, maps were often drawn on cloth or parchment. The word "map" emerged in English during the late 16th century with the specific sense of a representation of the Earth's surface.
Therefore, the term "contourmap" indicates a map that displays contours—lines connecting points of equal elevation—thus representing changes in the topography or relief of an area.
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