Chapter 5 Interpreting Topographical Maps. Topographical Map – shows the physical and human features in an area in the form of symbols.

Chapter 5

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Topographical Map – shows the physical and human features in an area in the form of symbols.

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Using Grid References to Describe Locations

northings

eastings

Interpreting Topographical Maps

four-figure grid reference

- to locate the grid square of an area or a large feature on a map

six-figure grid reference

- to find the exact location of a feature on a map

5832

584326

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Finding Directions in a Map

compass point on a map NE

SESW

NW

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Compass Bearings on a Map

compass point are useful only for finding directions, to be more exact, we should measure the direction in degrees

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Measuring Distances on a Map

straight-line distance

curved distance

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting the Physical Environment shown on a Topographical Maps

Using contours to represent relief

contours are imaginary lines that joins places of the same height above sea level

close together contours = steep slopesfar apart contours = gentle slopesvery far apart = almost flat land (plain)

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Contour Patterns and Physical Features

hill – represented by circular contours (less than 600 metres)

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Contour Patterns and Physical Features

mountain – represented by circular contours (above 600 metres)

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Contour Patterns and Physical Features

valley – low area between hills or mountains

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Contour Patterns and Physical Features

plateau – upland area, has steep slopes and a broad, flat top

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Contour Patterns and Physical Features

ridge – upland area that is long, narrow and steep-sided

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting the Human Environment shown on a Topographical Maps

settlements – place where people live and carry out activities such as farming, buying

and selling of goods

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting the Human Environment shown on a Topographical Maps

transport lines– refer to routes people use to travelfrom one place to another

Interpreting Topographical Maps

Interpreting the Human Environment shown on a Topographical Maps

land use– refer to how the land is used in an area

Interpreting Topographical Maps

QUIZ