Which statement about contour lines is true?

• A. They indicate distance only
• B. They are not connected
• C. They represent elevation and relief
• D. They are always color-coded blue

Answer: (C)

Contour lines on a map show elevation and the shape of the terrain. Each line joins all points that are at the same height above sea level, so the lines outline hills, valleys, and ridges. How close the lines are tells you about slope: widely spaced lines mean gentle slopes, closely spaced lines indicate steep terrain. They form continuous loops around features and never cross each other, which helps you read the real relief of the landscape. This is why the statement about representing elevation and relief is the true one. Contour lines aren’t just about distance, they aren’t random unconnected segments, and they aren’t always blue—on most maps they’re brown or black, with blue used for water features.