What do contour lines represent on topographic maps?

Contour lines on topographic maps represent lines of equal elevation, which indicates how the landscape changes in terms of height above a specific reference level, usually sea level. Each line connects points that share the same elevation, allowing the viewer to visualize the terrain's shape and slope.

By analyzing these lines, one can determine the steepness of hills, the depth of valleys, and even the location of features such as ridges and depressions. For example, closely spaced contour lines suggest a steep slope, while widely spaced lines indicate a gentler incline.

This representation is crucial for various applications, including hiking, land development, and environmental studies, as it provides comprehensive insights into the physical geography of an area. In contrast, the other options refer to different types of data and maps: temperature, pressure, and distance are represented by other specific contour lines or scales but not on typical topographic maps, which focus solely on elevation.