Open map List

Slope chart

In cartography, a slope chart is a graphical representation used to visualize changes in elevation or other spatial attributes between two points. It is commonly used in terrain analysis, topographic mapping, and GIS applications to depict how slopes vary across a landscape.

Intermediate

Introduction

Key Characteristics of a Slope Chart in Cartography:

  1. Represents Elevation Changes – Displays variations in height between two locations.
  2. Uses Straight or Curved Lines – Shows the gradient of slopes between measured points.
  3. Simplifies Terrain Analysis – Helps in understanding how steep or gradual an elevation change is.
  4. Can Include Additional Attributes – Some slope charts integrate land use, vegetation cover, or geological layers.

Examples

Examples of Slope Charts in Cartography:

  • Topographic Slope Profiles – Visualizing changes in elevation along a specific transect.
  • Hiking Trail Steepness – Representing slope variations along a hiking route.
  • Road or Railway Slope Analysis – Assessing elevation differences for engineering and transportation planning.
  • Urban Development – Examining terrain slope for construction and flood risk assessment.

Comparison with Other Cartographic Elevation Representations:

Visualization Type Purpose
Slope Chart Compares elevation changes between two points or across a profile
Contour Map Shows elevation lines and terrain patterns
3D Terrain Model Provides a realistic 3D representation of landforms
Hillshade Map Uses shading to highlight relief and slopes

Outgoing relations