FAA Topography and Terrain Features

Question 1

On a sectional chart, the Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF) in each latitude/longitude grid square is shown in what color?

Accepted Answer

Brown

Answer

MEF values are printed in bold brown/tan digits in each quadrangle of a sectional chart, indicating the highest elevation including terrain and obstacles in that grid square.

Question 2

The MEF value on a sectional chart represents what?

Accepted Answer

Highest known elevation plus a 100-foot buffer within a grid square, rounded up to nearest 100 feet

Answer

The MEF is calculated by taking the highest terrain or obstacle in a grid square, adding a 100-foot buffer, and rounding up to the next 100-foot increment.

Question 3

On a sectional chart, elevation contour lines that are closer together indicate what about the terrain?

Accepted Answer

Steeper terrain with rapid elevation change

Answer

Closely spaced contour lines on a sectional chart indicate steep terrain where elevation changes rapidly over a short horizontal distance.

Question 4

On a sectional chart, what does a spot elevation (small X with a number) indicate?

Accepted Answer

The exact surveyed elevation at that point in feet MSL

Answer

Spot elevations shown as small X marks with numbers on a sectional chart represent precisely surveyed terrain heights in feet above mean sea level at that specific location.

Question 5

On a sectional chart, what color is used to indicate low-lying terrain near sea level?

Accepted Answer

Light yellow or cream

Answer

Low-lying terrain near sea level is shown in a light yellow or cream color on sectional charts, with darker shading indicating higher elevation zones.

FAA - Sectional Chart Practice Test

FAA - Sectional Chart Practice Test

FAA Topography and Terrain Features