APHUG 1.4

Scale

Relationship of the size of a map to the amount of area it represents on Earth.

Large-Scale

A map that covers less area in greater detail (zoomed-in).

Small-Scale

A map that covers more area in less detail (zoomed-out).

Scale of Analysis

The level at which geographic data is displayed.

Global Scale of Analysis

Analysis of data at a world level.

Regional Scale of Analysis

Analysis of data by continents or world regions.

National Scale of Analysis

Analysis of data for one or more countries.

Local Scale of Analysis

Analysis of data at a subnational level.

Regions

Areas drawn based on common criteria within a certain area.

Formal Region

An area with one or more shared traits, also known as a uniform region.

Physical Traits

Characteristics such as climate and landforms shared by a formal region.

Cultural Traits

Characteristics such as language or religion shared by a formal region.

Core Area

The predominant area of a common culture within a region.

Desert

An area that receives less than 8 inches of rainfall annually.

Transition Zones

Regions with borders that are transitional and often contested.

Functional Region

A region formed to serve a specific function, such as a school district.

Central Node

The center of operation in a functional region.

Surrounding Nodes

Other areas that provide support to the Central Node.

Hinterlands

The entire area served by a Central Node.

Perceptual Region

A region that exists only in cultural perception, also known as a Vernacular Region.