An isotherm is a line connecting locations with equal temperature. Isotherm maps show where temperatures are relatively high and low, and also where temperature changes are gradual or dramatic over a distance.
Rules for drawing isotherms:
- Draw your isotherm in a neat and smooth line instead of a jagged line. (trace lightly in pencil. then go over when done.)
- An isotherm should begin and end at an edge of the map, or, alternatively, loop around and close on itself
- An isotherm should never branch or fork
- Isotherms should be drawn at equal intervals.
Website: https://courseware.e-education.psu.edu/public/meteo/meteo101demo/Examples/Images/Section2/contour_tool_t0203.swf
COMPLETE #1-9 ON THE WEBSITE:
1. Where it says: "Select isotherm" Click on the box and choose 50. Then click "Draw Line".
2. Watch as the pencil draws a line with temperatures less than 50 degrees on one side, and temperatures greater than 50 on the other side.
4. Click on the box and choose 80. This one is different because it shows a closed isotherm. Inside the circle it is greater than 80 degrees and outside the circle it is less than 80 degrees.
5. Using your mouse (shown as a pencil on the screen), draw the isotherms for 40 degrees on the computer screen.
6. Check your work: "Select isotherm" click on the box and choose 40 degrees. Then click "Draw Line". Compare your line to the line drawn.
7. You can erase or clear the practice lines at any point by using the "erasing" or "clear practice button". Continue until all isotherms have been drawn in (60 & 70 degrees)
9. Click on "colorize", and the isotherms will be drawn and colored in.
COMPLETE THE 1-3 ON THE HANDOUT
1. Draw the 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 degree isotherms with a pencil (use a pencil because this will be the only sheet you get)2. Colorize your map.
3. Place a color coded key on right side of your map.
