What is another name for a topographic map
Topographic maps are also commonly called contour maps or topo maps.. In the United States, where the primary national series is organized by a strict 7.5Â° grid, they are often called topo quads (or quadrangles).Topographic maps conventionally show topography, or land contours, by means of contour lines.Contour lines are curves that connect contiguous points of the same altitude (isohypse). In other words, every point on the marked line of 100 m elevation is 100 m above mean sea level.opographic maps conventionally show topography, or land contours, by means of contour lines. Contour lines are curves that connect contiguous points of the same altitude (isohypse). In other words, every point on the marked line of 100 m elevation is 100 m above mean sea level.