Select the INCORRECT characteristic of contour lines from the following.

Explanation:

True: Contour lines represent the intersection of a plane of a known elevation with the ground surface. Therefore, the contour line would pass through any point perpendicular to the line of the steepest slope at that point.

True: Contour lines represent distinct elevation values. Except in the case of overhanging cliffs or caves, they cannot intersect each other because no point on the ground can have two different elevations.

True: In the case of a vertical cliff, contour lines of different elevations could seem to unite and form a single line in some representations, indicating a sudden change in elevation.

False: Contour lines are not parallel to the watershed lines or ridgelines. Watersheds or ridgelines are traces of the points of the highest local elevations, while contour lines represent lines of constant elevation. The contour line can cross the watershed line but is not parallel to it.