American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What scale is commonly used for USGS topographic maps?

1. 1:5,000

2. 1:10,000

3. 1:100,000

4. 1:24,000

The correct answer is: 1:24,000

The commonly used scale for USGS topographic maps is 1:24,000. This scale is particularly significant in the field of land use planning and environmental analysis because it offers a detailed view of the terrain and landscape features. At this scale, one inch on the map represents 24,000 inches in the real world, providing sufficient detail to identify small features like trails, roads, bodies of water, and elevation changes, which are vital for planners, geologists, and other professionals in various fields. USGS topographic maps at 1:24,000 scale are produced for areas across the United States and are often referred to as 7.5-minute quadrangles, indicating the time it takes for Earth to rotate over 7.5 minutes of longitude. This level of detail is especially useful for activities such as site planning, environmental impact assessments, and outdoor navigation. In contrast, other scales like 1:5,000 and 1:10,000 provide a closer view but are less commonly used for broad topographic mapping by the USGS. The 1:100,000 scale offers a broader overview but lacks the intricacy essential for detailed planning and analysis. Thus, for topographic maps specifically issued by the