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HomeHomework HelpgeographyMap Projections and Scales

Map Projections and Scales

The various methods and techniques used to represent the Earth's surface on a two-dimensional map, including the concept of scale and how it affects the representation of geographic features and objects

intermediate
2 hours
Geography
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Overview

Map projections and scales are fundamental concepts in geography that help us understand how to represent the Earth's surface on flat maps. Different types of projections, such as cylindrical, conic, and azimuthal, each have unique characteristics and applications. Understanding these projections is...

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Key Terms

Map Projection
A method for representing the Earth's curved surface on a flat map.

Example: The Mercator projection is a common cylindrical map projection.

Scale
The ratio of a distance on the map to the actual distance on the ground.

Example: A scale of 1:100,000 means 1 unit on the map equals 100,000 units in reality.

Cylindrical Projection
A type of map projection where the surface is projected onto a cylinder.

Example: The Mercator projection is a cylindrical projection.

Conic Projection
A map projection where the surface is projected onto a cone.

Example: The Albers equal-area conic projection is used for mapping large areas.

Azimuthal Projection
A projection that shows the Earth from a specific point, often used for polar regions.

Example: The stereographic projection is an azimuthal projection.

Distortion
The alteration of the original shape, area, or distance in a map projection.

Example: Greenland appears much larger than it is due to distortion in the Mercator projection.

Related Topics

Geographic Information Systems
GIS involves the analysis and management of spatial data, crucial for modern mapping and planning.
advanced
Cartography
The art and science of map-making, focusing on design and representation.
intermediate
Spatial Analysis
The study of how objects are arranged in space and how they relate to one another.
intermediate

Key Concepts

Types of ProjectionsScale TypesDistortionApplications of Projections