Solution:An imaginary line, on the ground, joining the points of equal elevation above the assumed datum is called a contour. Survey work, including office work in the preparation of a contour plan is known as contouring.The vertical distance between any two conse-cutive contours is called contour interval.
The least horizontal distance between two consecutive contours is called horizontal equivalent.
Characteristics of Contours: The characteristics of contour given below are useful in plotting and for interpreting a contour map correctly.
1. Contour which is equally spaced represents a uniform slope whereas one which is closely spaced represents a steep slope.
2. A series of straight, parallel, equally spaced contours represents an inclined plane surface.
3. Contour at any point is perpendicular to the line of the steepest slope at that point.
4. A series of closed contours with higher values on the inside, represents a hill and lower value on the inside indicates a pond or depression without an outlet as shown in in figure.
