What does contour line mean?

Answer 1

Put simply, a contour is a line connecting points of equal elevations on the ground surface. The corresponding line on the map is called a contour line.

Alternatively, contour lines shown on a map are the traces of intersection of equally spaced level surfaces with the ground projected orthogonally to the map surface on a reduced scale.

Answer 2

A1 A contour line is a device used in plotting data on a plan, and it joins lines of equal value. For example isobars are met with in weather maps. [what a pun!]

The use of this device was quite late in history. In 1701, Halley used the device to represent the strength of magnetic fields across the country.

Later, in order to determine the mass of the Earth, a Schiehallon Experiment was set up in the 1770s in which the tilt of a plumb bob on opposite sides of the Schiehallon mountain was carefully measured, thus determining the gravitational attraction of the mountain.

In order to measure the volume of the mountain, Hutton re-used his earlier concept of contour lines as a way of systemizing the task. This appears to be the first time the familiar land contour lines were used.

The first use of the technique in Hydrology appears to be that of Cruquius in 1727, to plot the shape of the bed of a stream.

A2 Contour lines are used on maps to show elevation.

Answer 3

"contour lines are imaginary lines that connect places of equal elevation."

Answer 4

to create a mathematical balance to equate one line

Answer 5

It is a line that joins points of equal elevation