A topographical map uses contour lines to represent three-dimensional land features in two dimensions. It is important because it allows the viewer to understand locations of peaks, valleys, and other landforms, and whether travel will involve going uphill or downhill. Topographical maps are used by hikers, campers, engineers, soldiers, and others to understand elevation changes in an area. Contour lines called wiggly lines on the map indicate elevation, slope, and relief of the land.

1. TOPOGRAPHICAL
MAPS
BY APONI TRUSS
EARTH SCIENCE 2013

2. WHAT IS A TOPOGRAPHIC
MAP?
A topographic map is a flat two dimensional map that uses
lines to show Earth’s surface features in three dimensions.
WHY ARE TOPOGHRAPHICAL
MAPS IMPORTANT?
They can represent the three-dimensional
landscape in two dimensions.
A person who can read a topographical
map can find out the location of peaks,
valleys, ridges and saddles, among other
land features.
Topographical maps can also show you
whether you will be traveling uphill or
downhill on a particular road or trail.

3. WHO USES TOPOGRAPHICAL MAPS?
• Hikers
• Campers
• Archeologists
• Biologists
• Engineers
• Forest Ranges
• Soldiers

4. LAND FEATURES FOUND ON
TOPOGRAPHICAL MAPS
Natural Features
Man Made
• Plateaus
• Dam
• Mountains
• Roads
• Plains
• Hiking Trails
• Rivers
• Rail Road Tracks

5. DISPLAY OF 3 DIMENSIONS ON A 2 DIMENSIONAL
TOPOGRAPHICAL MAP
The wiggly lines on a TOPOGRAHICAL map are called contour line and they show
an area's elevation, slope and relief.

6. TURIN PAPYRUS
MAP
The oldest known topographical map
was found in Egypt.
Drawn approximately around 1160 B.C.
To locate sandstone for Rameese IV
and found 1824 A.D.

7. YOU HAVE ARRIVED AT THE END OF MY
PRESENTATION, THANK YOU.