Final answer:
Topographic maps use contour lines and color codes to represent varying elevations and physical features for visualizing Earth's three-dimensional terrain.
Step-by-step explanation:
A topographic map serves as a valuable tool for visualizing the three-dimensional features of Earth's surface using contour lines. These lines create a visual representation of different elevations, showing the relative height of physical features such as mountains, valleys, and plains. When creating a coastal topographic map, a geologist would use a GPS receiver to record positions and elevation data to accurately represent the area's topography. The grass's height wouldn't be reflected in contour lines, but the color green could be used to depict areas of tall grass on a thematic layer.
In topographic maps, the closeness of contour lines indicates the steepness of terrain, with closer lines signifying steeper slopes. Different colors can also portray elevation, where cool colors like blue and purple might represent low-lying areas, and warmer colors like red and yellow indicate higher elevations. Learning to read these topographic maps is crucial for understanding the physical layout of a region, as they provide insights into the area's geology and potential challenges for navigation or development.