On topographic maps, which color is used to identify water features such as lakes and rivers?

On topographic maps, which color is used to identify water features such as lakes and rivers?

• A. Red
• B. Blue
• C. Green
• D. Black

Answer: (B)

Water features are shown in blue on topographic maps. This blue color makes lakes, rivers, and streams stand out clearly and keeps hydrology distinct from land features and man-made elements. The choice follows a long-standing cartographic convention: blue for water, with red typically used for roads and boundaries, green for vegetation, black for man-made features and labels, and brown for contour lines. So blue is the most appropriate color for identifying water features.

Water features are shown in blue on topographic maps. This blue color makes lakes, rivers, and streams stand out clearly and keeps hydrology distinct from land features and man-made elements. The choice follows a long-standing cartographic convention: blue for water, with red typically used for roads and boundaries, green for vegetation, black for man-made features and labels, and brown for contour lines. So blue is the most appropriate color for identifying water features.