Vertical Exaggeration Calculator
Calculate vertical exaggeration for maps, cross-sections, and 3D visualizations. Vertical exaggeration makes vertical features more visible by scaling them differently than horizontal features.
Map scale (e.g., 1:10,000 = 0.0001)
Vertical scale (e.g., 1:1,000 = 0.001)
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your horizontal scale (map scale). For example, 1:10,000 = 0.0001.
- Enter your vertical scale. For example, 1:1,000 = 0.001.
- The calculator displays the vertical exaggeration ratio (vertical scale ÷ horizontal scale).
- Use this to understand how much vertical features are exaggerated compared to horizontal features.
Vertical Exaggeration Formula
Vertical exaggeration is the ratio of vertical scale to horizontal scale:
Example: Horizontal scale 1:10,000 (0.0001) and vertical scale 1:1,000 (0.001): Exaggeration = 0.001 ÷ 0.0001 = 10x. Vertical features appear 10 times taller than they would at true scale.
Full Description
Vertical exaggeration is a visualization technique used in cartography, geology, and 3D modeling to make vertical features more visible. Because many terrain features (mountains, valleys, elevation changes) are much wider than they are tall, they can appear as barely noticeable bumps when displayed at true scale. Vertical exaggeration scales vertical dimensions differently than horizontal dimensions, making elevation changes visible while maintaining accurate horizontal distances.
The amount of exaggeration depends on the features being visualized. Subtle terrain changes (like gentle hills) may need 5x-10x exaggeration to be visible, while dramatic features (like mountains) might only need 2x-3x. Geological cross-sections often use 10x-50x exaggeration to show stratigraphic relationships that would be invisible at true scale.
This calculator helps you determine the vertical exaggeration in existing visualizations or plan the exaggeration for new ones. Always note the exaggeration factor when presenting exaggerated visualizations, as it\'s important for viewers to understand that vertical dimensions are not to scale. This prevents misinterpretation of the data while still making important features visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vertical exaggeration?
Vertical exaggeration is the ratio of vertical scale to horizontal scale in maps, cross-sections, and 3D visualizations. It makes vertical features (like mountains, elevation changes) more visible by scaling them differently than horizontal features.
Why use vertical exaggeration?
Many terrain features are much wider than they are tall. Without exaggeration, mountains would appear as barely noticeable bumps. Vertical exaggeration (typically 2x-5x) makes elevation changes visible while maintaining accurate horizontal distances.
What are common exaggeration values?
Topographic maps: 2x-5x. Geological cross-sections: 10x-50x. Bathymetric maps: 5x-20x. The amount depends on the feature being visualized—subtle terrain needs more exaggeration than dramatic mountains.
Does vertical exaggeration distort the data?
Yes, but intentionally. Vertical exaggeration is a visualization technique that makes features more visible. The actual data isn't changed—only how it's displayed. Always note the exaggeration factor when presenting exaggerated visualizations.