Topographic and thematic maps
A Topographic map is a type of geographical map characterized by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief, using contour lines. Traditional definitions require a topographic map to show both natural and man-made features. Topographic maps generally represent relief, hydrography, vegetation, settlements, roads in specific map symbols. Topographic maps level of accuracy and detail corresponds to its scale.
Although the Russia's territory is completely covered with topographic maps of 1:25 000 scale and less, and the most developed areas of the country are provided with a map of scale 1:10 000 and better, various topographic maps currently become out of date.
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Topographic map |
Abandoned agricultural land map |
As distinguished from topographic maps, thematic maps are designed to display one or more interconnected natural or socio-economic objects or phenomena. Thematic maps focuse on a particular theme or special topic, for example, soil, agricultural, forest, tourist geomorphological maps.
Thematic map usually contains topographic (geographic) features as well, though they perform background information only and are used as reference points to enhance the map's theme. So, thematic mapping should be considered a meeting point of cartography and other industries and sciences. It aims to show the complex of spatially-distributed objects and phenomena to create a framework for efficient analysis and decision making.
SOVZOND team of experienced cartographers creates both detailed topographic and thematic maps of various scales and levels of difficulty.