Monday, April 18, 2011

DEM (Digital Elevation Model)



This map is an example of a digital elevation model. With this type, we have a map that works to show topographic information, specifically elevation. They allow us to get a better idea of the lay of the land and help us to look at elevation changes. They work to show elevation models but with little regard to other information about the land. Being able to look at relief, we can better be able to understand patterns in wind, rain and temperature. For instance, if our DEM shows us a very high mountain, like the very left of the map above, and we see very strong rain on one side, our DEM could help us explain a rain shadow or something like a wind pattern that wraps around the mountain. DEM's could also help with navigation and things that require us to know the land more intimately. 

No comments:

Post a Comment