Thursday, May 29, 2008

Hypsometric Pictoral: France

Through the use of shading gradients, Hypsometric maps represent changes in elevation of an area terrain. Hypsometric colors are most common in topographic maps at small scales, either applied as continuous gradients or intervals. The cartographer has to choose the number of different color classes, their limiting contour lines and the colors.
Generally, relatively light colors are preferable and the basic principle "higher is brighter" is advice worth heeding. (Right) The color scheme designed for the hypsometric map of France by R. Leuzinger. Higher elevation is represented by brighter shading, while elevations closer to sea level are more of a natural low toned gradient.

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