A cartographic representation depicting the course and surrounding geographical features of a specific waterway is a visual aid for understanding its physical characteristics. For example, such a visual representation may illustrate the river’s tributaries, adjacent landforms, and locations of human settlements along its banks.
These geographical depictions provide crucial information for various purposes, including navigation, resource management, flood control, and recreational activities. Historically, these representations have aided exploration, territorial claims, and infrastructure development, playing a significant role in shaping human interaction with the environment.