What is topographic mapping?

Topographic mapping involves the representation of the Earth's surface features and elevations, commonly utilizing contour lines to indicate varying heights. These contour lines connect points of equal elevation, allowing users to visualize the three-dimensional landscape on a two-dimensional plane. Topographic maps are essential for understanding the shape, slope, and elevation of landforms, which is crucial in fields such as land use planning, environmental studies, and outdoor activities like hiking. The information derived from such maps assists in understanding drainage patterns, watershed management, and the overall geographic context of an area. The other options focus on different geological aspects, such as thermal analysis, mineral composition, and geological ages, which do not pertain to the fundamental purpose of topographic mapping.