B 5. Contour lines are a type of line that represent A) the Prime Meridian B) latitude and longitude C) unequal elevations only D) areas of equal elevation on a map

Contour lines are crucial for understanding the topography of a landscape as they connect points of equal elevation, enabling map readers to visualize the terrain's hills, valleys, and slopes. This means that if you see a series of contour lines, you can deduce how steep or flat the land is just by looking at how close or spaced out these lines are! In real-world applications, contour lines are invaluable for various fields, such as urban planning, agriculture, and engineering. They help in designing land use, assessing drainage patterns, and planning construction projects by providing essential data about the landscape's elevation, ensuring everything from roads to buildings meets safety and functionality standards!