How can I use topographic maps? An overview of topographic maps
and associated topics Topographic maps as a way to visualize the
surface of the Earth Why should I become familiar with all
aspects of topographic maps? Topographic maps will be familiar
to those of you who are hikers or outdoor enthusiasts; they are
used to understand the landscape over which you will hike (or
rock climb or ski, etc). They are also commonly used by field
geologists for a variety of applications. The ability to read
and interpret topographic maps is considered a basic skill for
all geoscientists and geoscience students. Topographic maps are
used to understand the shape of the land, whether a slope will
fail, how glaciers are changing, and geologic history, among
many other things. Geoscientists make and use them to construct
geologic maps, to find the best building sites, to estimate
where flooding will take place, and to determine the best sites
for archeological or paleontological digs. Parts of this module
teach you about how