Which type of map generally displays physical features like mountains and rivers?

Study for the GIS Professional Certification Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification!

A topographic map is specifically designed to show physical features of the land, which includes mountains, rivers, valleys, and other natural elements. It typically employs contour lines to represent elevation changes, allowing users to visualize the terrain's shape and steepness. Additionally, topographic maps often include details like landmarks, trails, and vegetation, making them useful for outdoor activities such as hiking and planning.

In contrast, planimetric maps primarily focus on two-dimensional representations of the Earth's surface, displaying features like roads and buildings without showing elevation changes. Thematic maps are used to convey specific themes or data, such as population statistics or climate information, rather than physical landforms. Choropleth maps are a type of thematic map that uses colors or patterns to represent statistical data values in predefined areas but do not emphasize physical geography. Each of these alternatives serves different purposes, highlighting why the topographic map is the most appropriate choice for depicting physical features.

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