Tutorial: Create a Hypsometric Curve

5. Conclusion

A hypsometric curve shows how the area of a catchment is distributed across elevation. It plots the cumulative percentage of area (x‑axis) against elevation (y‑axis). The shape of the curve is what matters most, because it reflects the geomorphic “maturity” of the landscape.

In general:

• Convex curves → youthful terrain, little erosion, steep slopes, much of the area still at high elevation.
• Concave curves → mature terrain, long-term erosion, most of the area at lower elevations.
• S‑shaped curves → transitional stage, with both erosional lowering and some remaining high ground.

Our curve rises gently at first and then steepens toward the upper end, forming a predominantly concave shape. 

This indicates a mature landscape where erosion has already lowered large parts of the catchment. Most of the area lies at relatively low to mid elevations, while only a small proportion occupies the highest terrain. The steep rise near the end of the curve shows that the remaining high elevations are limited in area and form only the uppermost part of the catchment.

In practical terms for hydrology and geomorphology:

• The catchment has undergone substantial erosional development.
• Slopes are likely moderate to gentle over much of the area.
• Runoff generation is more distributed rather than dominated by steep headwaters.
• The landscape is not youthful or tectonically fresh, but rather shaped by long-term denudation.

Now you've learned how to create a hypsometric curve.

This video guides you through the steps: