5. (Reading topography). The figure above shows the topographical contour map of

Question

5. (Reading topography). The figure above shows the topographical contour map of the Mount Saint Helens in Oregon State. Numbers on the contours indicate elevation in meters above sea level. (a) Determine which of the arrows attached to points A, B, C. D, E, H may possibly represent the gradient vector of the elevation function. (b) Notice that points I and K are located on the same level, as well as points J and L. Determine which rate of change in the elevation is faster: going from I to J, or going from K to L? If you draw the gradient vectors at points I and K. which one would have a larger magnitude? (c) The horizontal distance on the map between points F and G is 50 meters. Assuming that the slope of the mounting between these two points remains constant calculate the actual terrestrial distance between them. (d) Find the slope itself (you may use a calculator to answer these questions).

Explanation / Answer

a.

B,C,D,H are the points which shows the gradient as it is perpendicular to the gradient line.

b.

K to L distance is lesser compare to the I to J . So K to L gradient change is faster.

c.

F to G map distance = 50 m

Elevation diff. = 1750 - 1600 = 150 m

So,

actual distance = sqrt ( 50^2 + 150^2) = 158.11 m

d.

slope = V/H = 150 / 50 = 3/1

so,

slope = 3:1

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse 5
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.