Imaginary lines on a map that indicate areas of constant elevation are called what?

Imaginary lines on a map that indicate areas of constant elevation are known as contours. These lines connect points of equal elevation above a specific baseline, typically sea level, allowing individuals to visualize the terrain's shape and slope. Contour lines are essential in cartography and geospatial analysis for understanding topography, as they provide valuable information about landforms, such as hills, valleys, and slopes.

The spacing of contour lines indicates the steepness of the terrain: closely spaced lines suggest steep slopes, while widely spaced lines indicate gentle slopes. This feature makes contours a fundamental component of topographic maps, which are widely used in various fields, including geography, environmental science, and land-use planning. Understanding contours is key for anyone involved in geospatial intelligence, as they help interpret land features and plan accordingly.