What is the significance of understanding the elevation on a topographic map?

Understanding elevation on a topographic map is crucial for gauging travel difficulty and planning routes. Elevation provides information about the terrain's steepness, which directly influences the physical exertion required for navigation. Areas with significant elevation changes may require more effort to traverse, while flatter regions may allow for easier movement. This knowledge is vital for route planning, ensuring that navigators can choose paths that align with their physical capabilities, the requirements of their mission, or the limitations of the equipment they are using. Assessing elevation helps in anticipating potential hazards, identifying suitable travel routes, and making informed decisions to enhance safety and efficiency during navigation.