Elevation

Elevation refers to the height of a geographical point above a fixed reference point, often mean sea level. It is a significant factor in a broad range of scientific and societal applications including aviation, hiking, and land use planning.

Definition

Elevation is defined as the vertical distance above or below a reference plane, which is most commonly a mean sea level. This is measured in units of distance such as meters or feet.

Measurement

Elevation is measured using a variety of methods, including GPS (Global Positioning System), lidar, and traditional surveying techniques. The accuracy of these measurements can vary depending on the method used and the specific conditions at the time of measurement.

Applications

Elevation data is used in a wide range of applications. In aviation, it is crucial for flight planning and navigation. In geology and geography, it is used to study landforms and the processes that shape them. In civil engineering, it is used in the design and construction of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. In environmental science, it is used to study ecosystems and climate change.

Elevation and Health

Elevation can also have significant effects on human health. For example, people living at high elevations may experience altitude sickness due to the lower oxygen levels. On the other hand, some studies have suggested that living at higher elevations may be associated with a lower risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease.

See Also

• Altitude
• Topography
• Geodesy
• Digital Elevation Model

References

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Elevation

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  Vertical distances illustration

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  Earth elevation histogram

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  Topographic map

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  Satellite image of Cape Peninsula

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  Elevation