Relief shading

Relief shading is a technique used in maps to visually represent the three-dimensional features of the terrain, such as hills and valleys. It simulates how sunlight would cast shadows on the landscape, making elevated areas appear brighter and lower areas darker. This shading helps viewers easily understand the terrain’s shape and elevation changes without needing detailed contour lines. It enhances the map’s readability by providing a realistic sense of the landscape’s form, making it easier to interpret physical features quickly and intuitively.