Learn about the history, types, and uses of USGS topographic maps, which show the physical features and boundaries of the land. Find out how to access, download, or order current and historical topo maps online or in print.

Learn the meaning, synonyms, examples, and history of the word topography, which refers to the art or practice of showing the features and elevations of a place on maps or charts. Find out how to use topography in a sentence and explore related words and topics.

Learn what topography is, how to read topographic maps, and how to use topographic analysis tools. Explore examples of topography in different countries and fields, such as geology, engineering, and astronomy.

Learn the definition, features, methods, and applications of topography, the study of the surface of the earth and other planets. Find out how topography is related to surveying, mapping, and weather patterns.

What is a topographic map? The distinctive characteristic of a topographic map is the use of elevation contour lines to show the shape of the Earth's surface. Elevation contours are imaginary lines connecting points having the same elevation on the surface of the land above or below a reference surface, which is usually mean sea level.

Topography (Greek topos, "place," and graphia, "writing") is the study of Earth's surface features or those of planets, moons, and asteroids. In the broadest sense, topography is concerned with local detail in general, including not only relief but also vegetative and human-made features, and even local history and culture .

topographic map, cartographic representation of the Earth’s surface at a level of detail or scale intermediate between that of a plan (small area) and a chorographic (large regional) map. Within the limits of scale, it shows as accurately as possible the location and shape of both natural and man-made features.

Learn about the scientific discipline of topography, which studies the surface features and forms of land. This chapter covers the subject, problem, methods and significance of topography, as well as the shape, size and land and water surface of Earth.

Learn how to represent and measure topography on maps and cross-sections, and how Earth's shape is influenced by gravity and rotation. Explore the largest topographic features on Earth and their relation to geologic structures and processes.