What does a "V" shape in contour lines usually represent?

A "V" shape in contour lines is indicative of stream beds and narrow ridges. This shape forms when the contour lines depict a river or stream flowing through a valley. The point of the "V" typically points upstream, indicating the direction of the water flow. As contours represent horizontal slices of elevation on a map, the convergence of these lines into a "V" shape suggests a narrowing topographic feature such as a stream channel or a ridge that has a declining elevation. This characteristic is essential for terrain navigation and map reading, as it helps to identify critical landforms and water flow directions. Understanding this can aid in planning rescue operations, as knowing topography is crucial for effective search and rescue missions.