Interpretation of Topographical Maps

A map is defined as a representation of the earth's surface or a part of it, showing natural or man-made features, drawn to scale on a flat surface.

The essential features of a map are:

1. Title
2. Scale
3. Direction
4. Grid System
5. Conventional Signs
6. Key or Legend

Key of a map explains the meaning of the symbols that are used in the map. It is also known as legend.

On the basis of size, maps can be classified into two categories:

1. Large scale maps (Cadastral maps and Topographical maps)
2. Small scale maps (Atlas maps and Wall maps)

On the basis of content and purpose, maps can be classified into three types-

1. Physical maps
2. Political maps
3. Thematic maps

A topographical map shows the surface of the earth in detail. These maps are drawn on a number of sheets where each sheet depicts the details of only one particular part of the whole area. these sheets are joined to give a complete picture of the entire area.

Topographical maps show physical features like valleys, hills, peaks etc., as well as man-made features like roads, railways, canals etc.

Grid lines are imaginary lines drawn on a survey map in red colour. The origin of the Grid is a point south-west of the map. The 'National Grid Reference' is used for indicating the correct position of a particular feature on the map.

(a) 6131, 6233

(b) 6234, 6032

(c) 6231

(d) 5930

(e) 6232

(f) 6131

(a) 625338

(b) 598321

(c) 615312

(d) 600320

(e) 608324

(f) 622340