1.3 Data Maps and Their Applications

Thematic Maps

Maps that use quantitative data on specific topics to highlight spatial patterns and trends across a chosen area. Choropleth, Isopleth, Dot Density

Choropleth Maps

Thematic maps that are shaded or colored in proportion to the value of a specific variable, highlighting distribution across geographic regions.

Isopleth Maps

Maps that follow areas of interest without regard to borders, often used in meteorology to illustrate variables like wind speed or precipitation.

Dot Density Maps

Maps that use a dot symbol to represent a feature; each dot can represent a single occurrence or a group of occurrences, depending on the map type.

Population Cartogram

A type of map where areas are resized or distorted based on a certain population variable.

Scale

The relationship between distance on the map and distance on the ground, indicating the level of detail and area represented.

Quantitative Data

Data that can be measured and expressed numerically, often used in thematic maps to show specific variables.

Spatial Patterns

The arrangement of different features across a geographic space as highlighted by thematic maps.

Map Reading

The ability to read and understand maps, including understanding the scale, symbols, and how data is shown.