Physical Maps

Physical maps represent what a region looks like by showing its major physical features, such as hills and plains. Physical maps often show elevation and relief. Elevation, indicated by colors, is the height of the land above sea level. Relief, indicated by shading, shows how sharply the land rises or falls.

▴ The Congo Basin

The Congo Basin is a major physical feature of Africa. The key shows that its elevation is within the range of 200–480 meters (650–1,600 feet).

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