What does a contour line on a map indicate?

A contour line on a map specifically indicates the elevation above sea level. These lines connect points of equal elevation, allowing users to visualize the terrain's shape and height. When contour lines are closely spaced, they signify a steep slope, while widely spaced lines indicate a gradual slope. This information is crucial for understanding the landscape's topography, which is essential for various applications such as construction, land use planning, and erosion control efforts.

While contour lines do not directly provide information about vegetation types, soil characteristics, or specific land slopes, they contribute to understanding the overall landscape which influences these factors. Therefore, recognizing that the primary purpose of contour lines is to represent elevation helps distinguish their significance in maps.