Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

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Prepare for the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to succeed in your certification.

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Which of the following is true about contour lines?

  1. They can cross each other on a map.

  2. They close around hills and basins.

  3. They are always straight lines.

  4. They indicate areas of zero elevation.

The correct answer is: They close around hills and basins.

Contour lines are essential features on topographic maps, representing areas of equal elevation. When the statement mentions that contour lines close around hills and basins, it refers to the way these lines can form closed loops that indicate the shape of the terrain. In the case of a hill, the contour lines will form concentric circles that ascend in elevation as one moves inward. Conversely, in a basin or depression, the contour lines will also form loops but descend in elevation towards the center. This characteristic clearly depicts the topographical features of landscapes. The other statements provide inaccurate representations of contour lines. For example, contour lines do not cross; if they were to do so, it would indicate a contradiction in elevation at the point of intersection. Also, they are not always straight; they can be curved depending on the geography. Lastly, while contour lines indicate changes in elevation, they do not specifically mark areas of zero elevation unless a contour line specifically represents that level, typically referred to as sea level in many cases.