Is it possible to calculate area on a topographical map without a scale?

[alfie]

Hi Maths wizzes,

I have a problem that my limited maths skills can't wrap my head round.

I have a topographical map. It shows the area of a property (land) and the difference in height as trace lines, Eg it shows which parts are at 850m elevation and which are at 830m, so there's a 20m difference (66ft) in height between those two points.

But my map has no scale. What I need to know is the area of the flat the bits of land. The bits you can actually build something on.

Is it possible to figure out the scale or the area based on just knowing the topography?

I've attached a section of the map... I'd be keen to know your thoughts.

thanks in advance


Alfie

 

[MathLover1]

It is possible to figure out the scale, but creating scales in a map consumes time and effort. This process takes at least one month to install scales in a map.
Your map's scale legend will always be at the bottom. For USGS topographic maps, 1:24,000 is the scale most often used. So, if you don't have a scale, use 1:24000.

here is nice video about topographic maps

 

[alfie]

Thanks MathLover1 for the info. I'll try it and see how I get on.