Relief, or the topographic features of a landscape, can be shown on a map through the use of contour lines, shading, and spot elevations.
Contour lines are lines on a map that connect points of equal elevation. These lines help to visualize the three-dimensional shape of the land, as well as the steepness of slopes. Contour lines are typically spaced at regular intervals, such as every 10 or 20 feet, depending on the scale of the map. The closer the contour lines are to each other, the steeper the slope.
Shading can also be used to show relief on a map. By using different shades of color or patterns, the map can give the impression of three-dimensional form, with lighter shades indicating higher elevations and darker shades indicating lower elevations.
Spot elevations, or small numbers written on the map, can also be used to show specific elevations at certain points on the map. These can be helpful in understanding the relative elevations of different features on the map, such as peaks, valleys, and plateaus.
In addition to these techniques, topographic maps may also include other features that help to show relief, such as hill shading, which uses shadows to show the shape of the land, or hypsometric tints, which use different colors to indicate different elevations.
Overall, the use of contour lines, shading, and spot elevations helps to give a clear visual representation of the topographic features of a landscape, allowing us to better understand and navigate the terrain.