Name _______________________________
Earth Science
Date ___________________
Lab: Topographic Maps
Introduction:
Topographic maps are two-dimensional representations of Earth's surface. In this lab exercise you
will interpret and analyze an actual topographic map, and construct profiles parts of Earth's surface.
Materials:
Ruler
Earth Science Reference Tables
Interpreting a Topographic Map of Bear Mountain
Objectives: Using a topographic map of Bear Mountain you will...
1. Determine contour interval, elevations, and gradient
2. Determine direction of stream flow
3. Construct two profiles between points on the map
Procedure:
1. Analyze the topographic map of Bear Mountain and answer questions 1-12.
2. Construct profiles along lines A-B and C-D using the graph paper provided.
Questions:
1. What is the contour interval of this map? ________________________
2. What is the highest elevation of White Mountain? __________________________
3. What are the closest latitude, longitude coordinates of the highest peak of White Mountain (to the
nearest whole minute)?
Latitude: ____________________
Longitude: ____________________
4. What is the direction of water flow of Rapid Brook? _________________________________
How can you tell? ___________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. Where on the map is the gradient largest, and how can you tell? ____________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
What does this tell you about the slope of the land there? ___________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6. What is the approximate elevation of the mine? ____________________________
7. What is the lowest possible elevation of the depression, which is located northeast of Bear
Mountain Peak?
__________________
8. Using the scale find the length of the railroad tunnel through Bear Mountain. _________________
9. What is the approximate elevation of the center of the town of Dixon? ______________________
10. Calculate the gradient between the top of Bald Peak to the dot next to Point X. Show the formula,
your calculations and be sure to include the correct units in your answer.
11. Calculate the gradient between the top of Bear Mountain to the dot next to Point Y. Show the
formula, your calculations and be sure to include the correct units in your answer.
12. Compare the two gradients that you calculated above. How do the contour lines on the map
support the differences in the gradient calculations that you made?
Construct profiles along lines A-B and C-D using the graph paper provided.
Bear Mountain