On a terrain map, what does a sloping line indicate?

On a terrain map, what does a sloping line indicate?

• A. A ridge
• B. A valley floor
• C. A plain
• D. A river

Answer: (A)

Understanding how contour lines convey landforms helps explain why a sloping line on a terrain map points to a ridge. A ridge is an elongated crest of high ground that rises above the surrounding terrain. On the map, the highest elevations trace along a narrow, elongated line—the crest—while contour lines on either side slope downward away from it. That sloping crest line is the telltale sign of the elevated spine of terrain, a ridge. In contrast, a valley floor sits between ridges and is shown by contour shapes that dip down into a low area, often forming V- or U-shaped patterns pointing uphill. A plain appears as a broad, flat area with widely spaced contour lines, showing little relief. A river is a water feature drawn in blue that follows the low ground, not a landform crest. So the sloping line indicates the ridge.

Understanding how contour lines convey landforms helps explain why a sloping line on a terrain map points to a ridge. A ridge is an elongated crest of high ground that rises above the surrounding terrain. On the map, the highest elevations trace along a narrow, elongated line—the crest—while contour lines on either side slope downward away from it. That sloping crest line is the telltale sign of the elevated spine of terrain, a ridge. In contrast, a valley floor sits between ridges and is shown by contour shapes that dip down into a low area, often forming V- or U-shaped patterns pointing uphill. A plain appears as a broad, flat area with widely spaced contour lines, showing little relief. A river is a water feature drawn in blue that follows the low ground, not a landform crest. So the sloping line indicates the ridge.