A topographic map uses contour lines spaced 200 metres apart. If one point lies on the 500‑metre contour line and another lies on the 900‑metre contour line, what is the elevation difference between the two points?

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify the contour interval: 200 m between consecutive lines.
2. Find the elevation of each point: 500 m and 900 m respectively.
3. Subtract the lower elevation from the higher: $900,\text{m}-500,\text{m}=400,\text{m}$.
4. So the elevation difference is 400 metres.

Concept tested: Contour lines and elevation difference

Published 7 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked