A physical map displays the natural features of a specific area. This includes characteristics such as mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, and forests. The key aspect of a physical map is its emphasis on showing the landscape and terrain variations.
In addition to landforms, physical maps often use color gradients to indicate elevation, where lighter colors represent lower elevations and darker shades indicate higher elevations. By looking at a physical map, one can easily identify how flat or mountainous a region is, how bodies of water are distributed, and how elevations change across the terrain.
These maps are particularly useful for understanding geographical features and the physical environment of an area, making them a valuable resource for students, travelers, and professionals in fields like geology, environmental science, and urban planning.