On the analysis of the large scale maps of the land surface slope

Abstract

A choice of the best scale of morphometric maps to ensure sufficient reliability with less labour is vital while working out nature-conserving measures and rational use of resources within vast areas. Studies of main morphometric maps-large scale maps of slopes-show that general distribution of slopes of different steepness is sufficiently characterized at the maps scale 1:10000, 1:25000 and 1:50000. Total cartographic error in area measure does not exceed 4%. The mean value of slope can be precisely estimated. Nevertheless the maps l:25000 and l:50000 may bring about great errors if used to erosion prediction and planning of soil conserving measures, as the cartographic generalization in these scales results in slopes distortions. If the total area is about 0,5 sq. km the errors in slope definition may be 17% and more.