tion:Topography concerns the shape and character of the EARTH's surface and maps were amongst the first artifacts to record these observations.[1] In modern mapping, a topographic map or topographic chart is a type of map characterized by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief, usually using CONTOUR lines (connecting points of equal elevation), but historically using a variety of methods. Traditional definitions require a topographic map to show both natural and man-made features. A topographic survey is typically based upon systematic observation and published as a map series, made up of two or more map sheets that combine to form the whole map. A topographic map series uses a common SPECIFICATION that includes the range of cartographic symbols EMPLOYED, as well as a standard geodetic framework that defines the map projection, coordinate system, ELLIPSOID and geodetic datum. Official topographic maps also adopt a national grid referencing system.Natural Resources Canada provides this description of topographic maps