On a topographic map, contour lines primarily convey which information?

• A. Weather patterns.
• B. Elevation and the shape of the terrain.
• C. Vegetation distribution.
• D. Political boundaries.

Answer: (D)

Contour lines on a topographic map show elevation and the shape of the terrain. Each line connects all points at the same height above sea level, so you can read how high features stand and how the land rises or falls across an area. The spacing of the lines indicates slope—closely spaced lines mean steep terrain, while widely spaced lines indicate gentler slopes. Closed loops reveal hills or depressions, and the way V-shaped contour patterns point toward higher ground helps you identify valleys and stream courses. Weather patterns, vegetation, and political boundaries aren’t depicted by contour lines; those come from other map details.