What does a contour line on a map represent?

A contour line on a map specifically connects points of equal elevation. This means that every point along a contour line shares the same height above a reference level, typically sea level. These lines are crucial in topographic maps as they provide a visual representation of the terrain's shape, allowing users to understand slopes, hills, valleys, and other landforms.

Contour lines that are close together indicate steep terrain, while those that are spaced farther apart suggest a gentler slope. By analyzing the patterns and spacing of contour lines, users can deduce significant information about the geography of an area, including drainage systems and land use. This unique representation of elevation distinguishes contour lines from other types of map symbols, such as those representing temperature, land use, or routes of travel, which focus on different data types and do not convey elevation information directly.