coutour

Contour is defined as 1. an outline representing or bounding the shape or form of something. 2. a way in which something varies, especially the pitch of music or the pattern of tones in an utterance. 3. (of a road or railway) follow the outline of (a topographical feature), especially along a contour line. Characteristics of Contours? Contours show distinct characteristic features of the terrain as follows: i) All points on a contour line are of the same elevation. ii) No two contour lines can meet or cross each other except in the rare case of an overhanging vertical cliff or wall iii) Closely spaced contour lines indicate steep slope iv) Widely spaced contour lines indicate gentle slope v) Equally spaced contour lines indicate uniform slope vi) Closed contour lines with higher elevation towards the centre indicate hills vii) Closed contour lines with reducing levels towards the centre indicate pond or other depression. viii) Contour lines of ridge show higher elevation within the loop of the contours. Contour lines cross ridge at right angles. ix) Contour lines of valley show reducing elevation within the loop of the contours. Contour lines cross valley at right angles. x) All contour lines must close either within the map boundary or outside. What is the Difference Between Contour Interval and Horizontal Equivalent There are three main differences between contour interval and horizontal equivalent as follows: S.No Contour Interval Horizontal Equivalent 1 It is based on vertical levels Represents horizontal distance 2 No measurement or scaling is required since the contour levels are indicated on the contour lines The distance must be measured on the map and converted to actual distance by multiplying with the scale of the map 3 In a given map the contour interval is a constant The horizontal equivalent varies with slope. Closer distance indicates steep slope and wider distance gentle slope