For what purpose would a topographic map be the most appropriate tool?

A topographic map is specifically designed to represent the three-dimensional features of terrain on a two-dimensional surface, capturing both the elevation and slope of the land. This type of map uses contour lines to illustrate elevation changes, making it an ideal tool for determining elevation differences between landforms. The varied spacing of these lines indicates how steep or flat an area is, allowing users to visualize and analyze terrain features effectively.

In contrast, while the other options might involve aspects of geography, they are not the primary functions of a topographic map. Coastal landforms may also be represented on topographic maps, but those maps won’t provide the specificity needed for identifying types of coastal features compared to specialized coastal maps. Locating tourist attractions in a city typically requires maps designed for urban navigation, highlighting streets and points of interest rather than elevation. Lastly, comparing the development levels of countries is generally accomplished through statistical maps or economic indicators, rather than through topographic maps that focus on physical land features.