A topographic map shows the shape of the Earth’s surface using contour lines. Contour lines show both exact elevation and the shape of the land. Each contour line is separated from the next by an equal difference in elevation. The space between one contour line and the next is called the contour interval (difference in height between two adjacent contour lines.
Recognizing surface features on a topographic map
The following surface features can be recognized by looking at the shape of a set of counter lines.
Hill - is identified by closed circles or ovals at the end of a raising series of contour lines.
This is the location of the top of a hill Contour Interval: difference between one contour line and the next.
Depression is shown by closed circles with depression lines pointing inward.
Depression
Stream valley - is shown when contour lines bend in a v-shape. Not the V-shape is always pointing uphill.

Stream/v-shape always points up hill.
Cliff or steep slope: the contour lines are close together.
Gentle slope : The contour lines are farther apart.
Steep slope
Gentle slope
Determining slope
When contour lines on a topographic map are close together the slope of the ground is steep. Where the contour liens are far apart, the slope of the ground is gentle. Slope is determined by comparing the difference in elevation between two points with the distance between two points. The following formula can be used to calculate slope.

Slope = change in elevation
Distance