Geographic Literacy Terms Unit 1

What is the definition of geography

the study of earths physical and human systems and the relationships amoung them

What is the definition of physical geography

the study of earths physical features and their processes

What is the definition of human geography

the study of how humans interact with and change their environment and how the environment can influence the human society

What are lines of latitude?

Imaginary flat lines running east to west, recorded using N and S. Measures the distance above or below the equator, which is at 0 degrees. The North pole is at 90 degrees

What are lines of longitude?

Imaginary flat lines running north to south, recorded using E and W. Measures the distance left or right of the prime meridian, which is located at 0 degrees longitude.

What is a compass rose?

A diagram, in the shape of a flower, showing directions(compass points) and bearings(measured clockwise from North) used to indicate direction on maps

What is a compass bearing

degrees on a compass, measured in clockwise direction from 0 degrees(north) to 360 degrees. Cardinal points, secondary points.

Map projection

Method used to transfer features fo the glove onto the flat surgace of a map.

Mercator-used by Google Earth-large distortions in size near the poles

Winkel Tripel- used by nat geo.-distorts all things slightly including area, shape, size, and angle.