contour mapping

Contour mapping is a way to represent three-dimensional terrain or data on a two-dimensional map using lines called contour lines. Each contour line connects points that share the same elevation or value. These lines help visualize the shape of the land, such as hills or valleys, and show gradients like steepness. Close lines indicate a steep slope, while wider spaced lines suggest gentler slopes. Contour maps are useful in fields like geography, engineering, and weather forecasting to interpret the spatial variation of terrain or data patterns efficiently.