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Colour Ramp

A gradient of colors used to represent data values on a map, aiding in the visualization of spatial analysis results.

Colour Ramp

What is a Colour Ramp?

In maps and data visualisations, a colour ramp is a gradient or series of colours used to depict a range of values, such as population density, elevation, temperature, or other continuous data.


Colour ramps in GIS and mapping assist users in visually interpreting data variations:


  • Increasing values are frequently indicated by light to dark hues.

  • High and low extremes are emphasised with multi-colour ramps (blue to red, for example).


Colour ramps improve map readability and facilitate the recognition of patterns or trends. They play a crucial role in elevation models, heat maps, and thematic mapping by making complex data easier to understand and interpret.

Related Keywords

A colour ramp in GIS is a colour gradient that is used to show data values on a map. By giving distinct colors to various value ranges, it facilitates the visualization of variations in factors like elevation, temperature, and population density.

A colour gradient map visualization illustrates changes in data values over a region using a range of colours. It facilitates the rapid identification of trends, patterns, and hotspots, simplifying the quick interpretation of complex spatial data.

Colours are used to depict data in a data visualization colour scale, which helps draw attention to differences and trends. While discrete colors are better for categories and enhance clarity and interpretation, gradients are better for continuous data.

A tool that produces a colour gradient to graphically depict data intensity on maps or charts is called a heatmap colour ramp generator. Through a smooth transition from low to high values, it facilitates the identification of patterns, trends, and hotspots, simplifying the interpretation of complex data at a glance.

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