1. What is Vertical Exaggeration?

Vertical Exaggeration (VE) is the ratio between the horizontal scale and vertical scale in a topographic profile or cross-section. It's used to emphasize subtle changes in elevation that might otherwise be hard to see.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Vertical Exaggeration equation:

Where:

• \( VE \) — Vertical Exaggeration (dimensionless)
• \( Horizontal Scale \) — The map or profile's horizontal scale (ratio)
• \( Vertical Scale \) — The map or profile's vertical scale (ratio)

Explanation: When VE > 1, vertical features appear exaggerated compared to their horizontal dimensions. When VE < 1, vertical features appear compressed.

3. Importance of Vertical Exaggeration

Details: Vertical exaggeration is crucial in geological cross-sections, topographic profiles, and seismic interpretation to make subtle features visible while maintaining accurate spatial relationships.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both horizontal and vertical scales as dimensionless ratios (e.g., 1:24000 would be entered as 0.00004167). Both values must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical vertical exaggeration value?
A: Common values range from 2x to 10x in geological cross-sections, depending on the terrain and purpose.

Q2: How does vertical exaggeration affect interpretation?
A: High VE makes gentle slopes appear steeper, which can distort perception of true landforms but reveals subtle features.

Q3: When should I avoid vertical exaggeration?
A: When precise slope measurements are needed or when comparing features with different exaggerations.

Q4: How do I convert map scales to ratios?
A: A scale of 1:24000 becomes 1/24000 = 0.00004167. For feet: 1"=2000' becomes 1/2000 = 0.0005.

Q5: Can vertical exaggeration be less than 1?
A: Yes, VE < 1 means vertical features are compressed relative to horizontal (rarely used in practice).