What defines an isarithmic map?

An isarithmic map is defined by its use of contour lines to represent values. These lines connect points of equal value, such as elevation, temperature, or pressure, allowing for easy visualization of gradients and variations across a geographical area. The continuous lines provide a clear picture of how a particular variable changes over space, making it particularly useful in fields like geology, meteorology, and environmental science.

The representation of values through contour lines allows users to identify patterns and make spatial analyses based on the defined intervals. This is in contrast to other mapping techniques that may focus on discrete data points or generalized color gradients. For instance, a map that only shows single data points lacks the ability to depict changes and trends across a larger area, and while color gradients are useful for visual representation, they do not provide the same level of precision in terms of indicating specific values through lines. Thus, the utilization of contour lines is what fundamentally categorizes an isarithmic map.