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When contour lines cross on a topographic map, what does that symbolize?

If nothing, what does the spacing on the contour lines symbolize?

Public Comments

1. Isn't it the steepness of the hill? If it is GCSE geography taught me something.
2. To understand you have to first know what the contour lines represent. Each line is a distinct elevation. For example 500 feet, 600 feet, 700 feet.... Since you can't be at 2 elevations simultaneously they should never cross. Of course maps are imperfect and lines aren't truly one-dimensional so you can get bleed or other types of lines like roads, text, or boundaries that might intersect. Since the lines represent vertical space, the plane of the map represents horizontal space. If the lines are close together it means the elevation rises in less distance. If they are far apart it means the land rises at greater distance. So close lines mean steep slopes and far apart lines mean gentle slopes.