COE Navigation & Orienteering

Question 1

What does the contour interval on a topographic map represent?

Accepted Answer

The vertical distance between adjacent contour lines

Answer

The contour interval is the vertical elevation difference between consecutive contour lines on a topographic map.

Question 2

On a topographic map, closely spaced contour lines most likely indicate:

Accepted Answer

A steep slope

Answer

Closely spaced contour lines indicate rapid elevation change over a short horizontal distance, representing a steep slope.

Question 3

What is magnetic declination?

Accepted Answer

The angle between true north and magnetic north

Answer

Magnetic declination is the angular difference between true (geographic) north and magnetic north, which varies by geographic location and must be accounted for when using a compass with a map.

Question 4

Which USGS map scale provides the greatest level of terrain detail for backcountry navigation?

Accepted Answer

1:24,000

Answer

A 1:24,000 scale (7.5-minute quadrangle) provides the most detail, representing 1 unit on the map as 24,000 of the same units on the ground.

Question 5

In navigation, what is a 'baseline'?

Accepted Answer

A linear terrain feature used as a navigational reference

Answer

A baseline is any linear feature—trail, road, river, or ridgeline—used as a reference that navigators can aim for or follow to locate themselves.

COE - Certified Outdoor Educator Practice Test

COE - Certified Outdoor Educator Practice Test

COE Navigation & Orienteering