Phys. Geog. Geom. 2026, 49(1): 22–29

https://doi.org/10.17721/phgg.2026.1/131.03

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Cartographic modeling of the spatial structural organization of landscapes of the Dnipropetrovsk region

Oleh V. Syzenko 

Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, 72 Nauky Ave., Dnipro, 49045, Ukraine  

Abstract

Purpose. This article investigates the problem of cartographic modeling of terrain as a continuous morpho-topological continuum. The central issue of the research is the ontology of boundaries – specifically, the conceptualization of the algorithmic transition from a continuous field to discrete chorological units.. Methods. Drawing on B. Bennett’s typology of boundaries, the author substantiates the necessity of establishing parametric thresholds to delimit objects that lack physical discontinuities. Rejecting the traditional substantive approach, the study proposes viewing the terrain not as a mere container for objects, but as a function of the spatial composition and interaction of topographic and land surfaces from the perspective of a formaltopological approach. Results. To address this problem, two foundational terrain models are developed. The first is a subject-oriented (visual-relational) model, wherein viewsheds act as spatial discretizers. Metrically finite areas are generated based on the observer's visual perception, forming visual landscapes for which the terrain serves as a material substrate. The second, an object-oriented model, seeks boundaries through the intrinsic properties of the continuum itself, given that both surfaces (topographic and land) possess the objective property of relief. Within the framework of this model, the application of a structural-deductive methodology for the global classification of landforms is justified. Conclusions. The study demonstrates the necessity of transitioning from a rigid hierarchical to a heterarchical topological model, where the allocation of an area to a specific class is determined less by its substantive properties than by its spatial context. The proposed approach transforms cartographic generalization from the mechanical merging of small polygons into an objective algorithmic process for resolving topological conflicts. ontology of boundaries, landforms, land surface, algorithmic delineation, сhorological units, topological weight.

Keywords

ontology of boundaries, landforms, land surface, algorithmic delineation, сhorological units, topological weight.

Received: April 20, 2026 / Accepted: May 10, 2026 / Published online: May 26, 2026

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