Contour Lines

Contour line- line that connects points of equal elevation

Elevation- height above or below sea level

Contour interval- difference in elevation between adjacent contour lines

The closer contour lines are, the steeper the slope

Contour lines form a “V” when they cross a river. Rivers flow the opposite direction of the “V”

Contour lines never cross.

Every 5th contour line is bold and labeled with its elevation (index contour).

Hills are represented by closed concentric contour lines.

Depressions are represented by closed concentric contours lines with hachure marks.