A topographic profile, also known as an elevation profile, is a two-dimensional representation of the terrain using a cross-sectional view. It is generated by drawing a line between two or more points on a map to visualize the altitudinal variations along that path. The Y-axis of the profile represents elevation values, while the X-axis corresponds to the horizontal distance between the selected points.
This method provides a detailed visualization of elevation changes along a specified line, offering a side view of the terrain that can be used in topographic analysis and environmental studies.
Preparing the Data
To create a topographic profile, a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and a line feature representing the path of the profile are required. First, add the DEM to a new map and include a polyline layer that represents the desired cross-section. For example, the data from the folder 11_11_perfil_elev can be added to a new map in ArcGIS Pro.
Next, right-click on the line layer and select Create Chart > Profile Graph. If this option is not available, it is likely because the tool requires a 3D polyline. To convert the line into a 3D feature, the Interpolate Shape tool must be used.
Using the Interpolate Shape Tool
The Interpolate Shape tool adds elevation values from the DEM to the input polyline. The tool is located at:
Geoprocessing > Toolboxes > 3D Analyst Tools > 3D Features > Interpolation > Interpolate Shape
In the tool window, select the DEM as the Input Surface and the polyline layer as the Input Features. After running the tool, the output will be a 3D polyline with elevation values assigned to its vertices.
Configuring the “Interpolate Shape” tool.
Creating the Topographic Profile
Once the 3D polyline is generated, right-click on it in the Contents panel and choose Create Chart > Profile Graph. This will open a graph displaying the elevation profile along the selected line.
If multiple polylines are present in the layer, the profile graph will include all of them. To distinguish between profiles, it is advisable to assign unique colors to each line. This can be done by modifying the attribute table or configuring the symbology options.
The profile graph can also be customized. The chart’s title, axis labels, and design options are accessible through the chart’s properties panel, allowing for a more informative and readable visualization.
Profile Direction Considerations
It is important to note that the profile direction depends on how the polyline was drawn. The tool reads the vertices in the order they were created, so the elevation profile follows the same direction—from the starting point to the endpoint. When designing a profile, users should ensure that the line is digitized in the correct orientation to reflect the desired direction of analysis.
Elevation profile in ArcGIS Pro.
