In Cartography, topographic maps and thematic maps are distinguished.
In the case of topographic maps, the situation,
water bodies, landforms, landcover and a set of other elements for general
orientation as well as labels form the main content of the map. [International Association of
Cartography, 1972]
Thematic maps mainly consist of phenomena
and occurrences of non-topographic type, which however, are related to the earth's
surface. These are things which have a geospatial location, extent or motion. These
can either be real things as well as relationships, functions, hypotheses, mental
imaginations, possibilities and projects.
The borders between topographic and thematic maps can not
always be clearly drawn. In the following illustration, one example for a topographic
map and one example for a thematic map are given. Click on either map to enlarge it.