Question

use topographic map below to answer questions 34 - 39.

1. which units on a ruler would be the best ones to use to measure distances on this map?

a. miles
c. feet
b. centimeters
d. meters

1. there is a mistake in the topographic map shown in the figure below. identify the mistake.

a) there could never be 2 contours with the same number.
b) topographic maps cant be made using meters.
c) two contour lines cross in the upper left part of the map.
d) none of the contours are circular.

1. which point is in a valley?

a. a
c. c
b. b
d. d

1. which point is on the steepest part of the map?

a. a
c. c
b. b
d. d

1. which point is most likely on the peak (top) of a mountain?

a. a
c. c
b. b
d. d

1. which point is on a ridge?

a. a
c. c
b. b
d. d

Explanation:

1. The scale on the map is in kilometers. Centimeters on a ruler would be a practical unit to measure distances on the map as they can be easily related to the kilometer - scale through conversion. Miles, feet, and meters are not as directly comparable to the kilometer - scale shown.
2. In topographic maps, contour lines should never cross each other because each contour line represents a single elevation. If they cross, it would imply two different elevations at the same point.
3. A valley is represented by contour lines that are closer together on the sides and wider in the middle, and point A shows this characteristic.
4. The steepest part of a topographic map is where the contour lines are closest together. Point D has the closest - spaced contour lines.
5. A mountain peak is represented by contour lines that form concentric circles with the innermost circle representing the highest elevation. Point C has this characteristic.
6. A ridge is represented by contour lines that curve outward, and point B shows this characteristic.

Answer:

1. b. centimeters
2. c. Two contour lines cross in the upper left part of the map.
3. a. A
4. d. D
5. c. C
6. b. B