Why is there a need to learn about contour maps?

Question

Why is there a need to learn about contour maps?

Answer 1

To answer this practically, I would say the biggest benefit from understanding "topography" (your 'contour' map) is understanding the layout of an area; i.e. peaks, valleys, FLOODPLAINS, especially when considering purchasing real estate.  Obviously in these days, (at least here in Iowa) you would want to make sure any property you would ever consider purchasing and paying for-for 30 years- is going to be high and dry when we get these "500 year" floods -- every 15 years!  Plus it's good to know if you ever go hunting.  

I just wanted to throw a couple practical applications your way so you could see how knowing this is helpful.

Answer 2

First, do you know what a contour map is?  Is displays elevation.  It is also know as a Topgraphical map.

They are used in most planning for large-scale architecture; earth sciences and geographry.  Miners use them, and you can plan hikes with them as well.

Answer 3

A contour map is plotted with places at the same height on a line(i.e these places are marked by points at the same level. Joining them gives a line almost straight). The difference in height between the places is marked by a deviation from the previous point. All these points at different elevations are joined to get the map.

It gives us the following useful information :

1) A rough idea of the altitudes ( relative altitudes )

2) A great estimate of the topography of the region. Useful to  find out whether the region is marked by mountains or is it a plain etc.

3)Easy source od representation for easy understanding later.

4)It is extremely useful to miners and explorers.