Quick Answer
Concave contour lines indicate water or low-lying areas, while convex lines indicate higher ground. The shape and spacing of contour lines help determine the landscape's features and terrain.
Understanding Contour Lines
When navigating a map, contour lines are essential for understanding the terrain and planning your route. A contour line is an imaginary line that connects points of equal elevation on a map. By reading contour lines, you can identify hills, valleys, ridges, and other features of the landscape.
Concave vs. Convex Contour Lines
Concave contour lines are curved inward, indicating a low-lying area such as a valley, lake, or river. These lines are often spaced closer together, as the elevation changes rapidly in these areas. For example, if a concave contour line has 100-foot spacing, it indicates a steep slope. On the other hand, convex contour lines are curved outward, indicating higher ground such as a hill or ridge. These lines are often spaced farther apart, as the elevation changes slowly in these areas.
Interpreting Contour Line Spacing
The spacing between contour lines is crucial for determining the terrain’s steepness and features. A general rule of thumb is that a spacing of 20-30 feet indicates a very steep slope, while a spacing of 100-200 feet indicates a moderate slope. Keep in mind that contour line spacing can vary depending on the map’s scale and the terrain’s complexity. By understanding contour lines, you can make more informed decisions when navigating a map and planning your route.
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