Bathymetric maps differ from standard topographic maps by what feature?

• A. They show weather patterns
• B. They show depth below sea level
• C. They show political boundaries
• D. They show population density

Answer: (B)

Bathymetric maps depict how deep the ocean floor is relative to sea level. This is different from standard topographic maps, which show elevations on land above sea level. On bathymetric maps you’ll see depth values and contours (or color shading) that indicate seabed relief—from shallow near the shore to very deep offshore. So the defining feature is the display of depth below sea level.