Elements of Mapmaking

Flashcards covering key elements related to mapmaking, including definitions and differences between types of maps.

Title

Indicates the theme of the map and what is represented in the image.

Map Scale

A measure that provides context for distances on a map, indicating the real-world distance represented by each unit on the map.

Map Key (Map Legend)

A list of symbols and/or colors used in the map, explaining what each symbol means.

Compass Rose

A directional reference on a map, indicating north, south, east, and west.

Latitude

The horizontal lines on a map that run east to west, with the Equator as the zero point.

Longitude

The vertical lines on a map that run from the North pole to the South pole, with the Prime Meridian as the zero point.

Political Map

A map that shows borders and territorial designations between countries.

Physical Map

A map that visually represents the physical landscape of a given area.

Prime Meridian

The zero line of longitude that runs from the North pole to the South pole through Greenwich, England.

Equator

The zero line of latitude that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.