For what purpose would a topographic map be most useful?

A topographic map is specifically designed to represent the physical features of a landscape, including elevation and relief. It utilizes contour lines to show changes in elevation, which allows users to determine how high various features are in relation to one another. In this context, the purpose of identifying the difference in elevation between a river and a nearby mountain ridge is particularly suited to what a topographic map provides. It visually conveys how mountainous terrain compares to lower areas like rivers, enabling users to understand the topography of the land.

In contrast, political boundaries, climate data, and population density are typically represented using different types of maps, such as political maps, climate maps, or thematic maps. These maps focus on specific attributes like governance, weather patterns, or demographic distribution rather than variations in physical elevation, which is the primary function of topographic maps.