What defines a hill in topographic terms?

In topographic terms, a hill is defined as a high area characterized by concentric contour lines on a map. These contour lines are drawn to connect points of equal elevation, and when they form circles or ovals that gradually get smaller as they approach the summit, they indicate an elevated area, or hill. This arrangement signifies that the land rises sharply from its surroundings, distinguishing it from lower terrains.

The presence of concentric contour lines indicates a peak, with the innermost lines representing the highest elevation point. Essentially, the configuration of these lines provides a visual representation of the relief of the land, illustrating how it rises and falls, which is crucial for understanding the terrain in various applications, such as hiking, planning, and environmental studies.