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HomeHomework HelpgeographyMap Scales and Purposes

Map Scales and Purposes

The different scales at which maps can be represented, from small-scale maps showing large areas to large-scale maps showing small areas in detail, and the various purposes that maps can serve, including navigation, representation of human features, and geographic information

beginner
2 hours
Geography
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Overview

Map scales are essential tools that help us understand the relationship between distances on a map and actual distances in the real world. They come in various forms, including ratio, graphic, and verbal scales, each serving unique purposes. Understanding how to read and interpret these scales is cr...

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Key Terms

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

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

Ratio Scale
A scale expressed as a ratio, showing the relationship between map distance and ground distance.

Example: 1:50,000 means 1 cm on the map equals 50,000 cm on the ground.

Graphic Scale
A visual representation of scale, often shown as a line marked with distances.

Example: A bar scale showing kilometers or miles.

Verbal Scale
A scale expressed in words, describing the relationship between map and ground distances.

Example: One inch equals one mile.

Topographic Map
A map that shows elevation and terrain features using contour lines.

Example: Used for hiking and outdoor activities.

Thematic Map
A map focused on a specific theme or subject, such as population density.

Example: A map showing the distribution of languages spoken.

Related Topics

Cartography
The art and science of map-making, including design and production.
intermediate
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Technology used to analyze and visualize spatial data.
advanced
Spatial Analysis
The study of how objects are arranged in space and their relationships.
intermediate

Key Concepts

Scale TypesReading ScalesPurpose of MapsApplications of Scales