On a topographic map, a cliff indicates what about the terrain?

On a topographic map, a cliff indicates what about the terrain?

• A. A steep drop
• B. A river
• C. A plateau
• D. A hill

Answer: (A)

Cliffs on a topographic map signal an abrupt elevation change—a very steep drop in the terrain. This is shown by contour lines that are tightly packed in the cliff area, reflecting a near-vertical slope as the land falls away quickly. A river would appear as a blue line, a plateau as a broad flat area with contour lines spaced farther apart, and a hill as a rounded rise with closed contour lines indicating higher ground toward the center. So the cliff specifically indicates a steep drop.

Cliffs on a topographic map signal an abrupt elevation change—a very steep drop in the terrain. This is shown by contour lines that are tightly packed in the cliff area, reflecting a near-vertical slope as the land falls away quickly. A river would appear as a blue line, a plateau as a broad flat area with contour lines spaced farther apart, and a hill as a rounded rise with closed contour lines indicating higher ground toward the center. So the cliff specifically indicates a steep drop.