Question

Which type of map shows changes in elevation at Earth's surface? A) conic C) Robinson B) topographic D) Mercator

Short answer

A topographic map shows changes in elevation at Earth's surface.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Map Types

Each map type represents certain features of the Earth differently. A conic map projects the Earth's surface onto a cone, often used for mid-latitudinal countries. The Robinson projection attempts to balance projection errors, making it suitable for displaying the whole world. The Mercator projection preserves angles and shape, useful for navigation but distorts size. A topographic map is specifically designed to show elevation and terrain features.

Define a Topographic Map

A topographic map uses contour lines to represent elevation changes on Earth's surface. These maps provide detailed information about the landscape, including mountains, valleys, and plains, allowing users to understand the terrain's complexities.

Identify the Answer

Given the definitions of the map types, the map that shows changes in elevation at Earth's surface is the topographic map (Option B).

Key concepts

Map Projections

Map projections are methods used to represent the 3D surface of the Earth on a 2D plane, such as a piece of paper or a computer screen. Each projection comes with its own advantages and limitations. Here are a few common types:

• Conic Projection: This type projects the Earth onto a cone, which is then unwrapped to a flat surface. It is beneficial for mapping small regions or countries and offers a balance in distortion of shape and area.
• Robinson Projection: This is a compromise projection, not wholly preserving any single property, but aiming to minimize distortion of size, shape, and distance. It's useful for world maps where a more "natural" view is desired.
• Mercator Projection: Known for its ability to maintain accurate angles, making it useful for navigation. However, it distorts size, especially near the poles, making land masses appear larger than they are.

Each projection serves different purposes, and it's essential to select the appropriate one for the task at hand.

Elevation Changes

Elevation changes refer to differences in height across Earth's surface. This is a crucial component in understanding the topography of an area. When looking at elevation changes:

• Elevation indicates how high the land is above sea level.
• Specific features like mountains and valleys cause significant variation.
• Understanding these changes helps in planning construction, managing natural resources, and predicting weather patterns.

Elevations can be subtle, like rolling hills, or dramatic, like the steep rise of a mountain range. Accurate portrayal of these changes is vital for many scientific and practical applications.

Earth's Surface Features

Earth's surface features include a variety of natural formations and landforms, some of which are marked by notable changes in elevation. Major surface features:

• Mountains: Large landform that rises prominently above its surroundings, commonly found in ranges.
• Valleys: Elongated depressions of the Earth's surface, usually between ranges of hills or mountains.
• Plains: Broad, flat areas typically at low elevation that cover large stretches of land.

When observing or mapping these features, it is essential to consider their formation, impact on human activity, and role in ecosystems.

Contour Lines

Contour lines are one of the fundamental tools used in cartography, especially for topographic maps. Key points about contour lines:

• They link points of equal elevation on a map.
• The closer the lines are, the steeper the terrain at that location. Wider spaces indicate gentler slopes.
• Contour lines never cross each other. That would imply two different elevations at the same point.

These lines allow us to visualize the 3D qualities of the landscape on a flat map, providing critical insight into terrain and landscape features. Understanding contour lines can help in navigation, planning land use, and knowing potential flood zones.