What process involves analyzing and understanding surface features on maps?

Analyzing and understanding surface features on maps is best described by the process known as Terrain Analysis. This term refers specifically to the examination of the Earth's surface, including its shape, slope, elevation, and other physical characteristics that are critical for various applications such as land use planning, environmental management, and hydrology.

Terrain Analysis employs a variety of techniques to assess how terrain influences processes such as water flow, vegetation distribution, and human activity. It involves using digital elevation models (DEMs) and other spatial data to derive slope, aspect, and topographic position, which are essential for understanding how surface features interact within an environmental or geographical system.

While Surface Interpretation may seem relevant, it does not capture the full range of analytical activities associated with terrain features. Geospatial Analysis is a broader term that encompasses many different analytical techniques, not limited to surface features alone. Environmental Mapping focuses more on representing and communicating environmental data rather than analyzing surface features specifically.