Chapter 5: Topographical Maps

Geography - Pratical Work in Geography • Class 11

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate17 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter, 'Topographical Maps', in the Class 11 Geography textbook, covers the methods of representation and interpretation of relief features on maps. It discusses the use of contours, conventional signs, and symbols in topographic sheets, which are used globally for uniformity. The chapter explains how to interpret different geographic features like hills, valleys, plateaus, drainage patterns, and human settlements using these maps. Additionally, it elaborates on understanding cultural features such as settlements and transport networks from topographical sheets.

Key Topics

  • Relief Representation
  • Contour Lines
  • Topographic Map Interpretation
  • Cultural Features Identification
  • Drainage Patterns
  • Human Settlement Analysis
  • Transportation Networks
  • Natural Landforms

Learning Objectives

  • Understand how to read topographical maps
  • Identify different landforms using contour lines
  • Analyze settlement patterns through map interpretation
  • Apply knowledge of map symbols to assess transport networks
  • Interpret drainage systems on topographical maps
  • Evaluate human and natural features depicted on maps

Questions in Chapter

What are topographical maps?

Answer: Topographical maps are large-scale maps that show both natural and man-made features of the land.

Page 65

Name the organisation which prepares the topographical maps of India.

Answer: The Survey of India prepares the topographical maps of India.

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Which are the commonly used scales for mapping our country used by the Survey of India?

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What are contours?

Answer: Contours are imaginary lines joining places having the same elevation above mean sea level.

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Write short notes on ‘Marginal Information’ in Topographical sheets.

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Additional Practice Questions

Explain the significance of contour intervals in topographic maps.

medium

Answer: Contour intervals indicate the difference in elevation between two successive contour lines, providing insight into the steepness or gentleness of the terrain.

How can a topographic map be used to identify the transportation network in a region?

easy

Answer: Transport networks in a topographic map are identified using conventional symbols, showing roads, railways, and paths connecting different settlements, indicating accessibility and connectivity.

Discuss the importance of topographical maps in disaster management.

hard

Answer: Topographical maps are crucial in disaster management as they provide detailed information about terrain, helping in strategizing evacuation routes and identifying safe areas.

What is the role of 'legend' in topographical maps?

easy

Answer: The legend provides explanations of the conventional signs and symbols used, allowing the reader to understand and interpret map features accurately.

Compare and contrast V-shaped and U-shaped valleys using topographic maps.

medium

Answer: V-shaped valleys on topographic maps are indicated by closely spaced contours forming a 'V' pattern, suggesting river erosion, while U-shaped valleys have wider spaced contours, indicating glacial erosion.