ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

North American Vertical Datum of 1988

Okay kiddo, do you remember when we learned about maps and how they show us where different places are? Well, when people make maps, they need to know how high or low things are compared to the ground. This is really important because it helps us understand how things are connected to each other.

For example, if we have a big hill and a river running next to it, we need to know how high the hill is and how low the river is so we can understand why the water runs down the hill into the river. Otherwise, we might get lost and not understand how different places fit together.

Now, scientists made a special kind of map called the North American Vertical Datum of 1988. It's basically a really detailed map that shows us how high or low different locations are compared to each other all across North America. It helps us understand how mountains, rivers, and oceans all fit together and how they affect each other.

The North American Vertical Datum of 1988 also helps people build things like bridges, dams, and buildings. Engineers need to know how high or low the land is so they can plan things out and make sure everything will be safe. So, this special map is really important for people who build things and for all of us to understand the world around us!