Why is Geography a Science? (Pg 1-7) – Key Terms & Tools (Vocabulary Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key geographic terms and tools from Pages 1-7 of the notes, including Place, Region, Scale, Space, Connection, Map, Cartography, GIS, Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, GPS, Satellite, Google Maps, GIS vs GPS, and the two central questions of geography.

Place

A specific point on the Earth.

Region

An area defined by particular characteristics.

Scale

The relationship between a portion of the Earth and its representation on a map or model.

Space

The physical area between places; studied to understand distribution and relationships among features.

Connection

Relationships among people and objects across space.

Map

A two-dimensional (2D) or flat-scale model of the Earth used as a reference and communication tool.

Cartography

The science of mapmaking.

GIS

Geographic Information Systems: technology for analyzing data about the Earth.

Photogrammetry

Taking measurements from photographs to determine distances and surface shapes.

Remote sensing

Data about the Earth’s surface collected from satellites or aircraft.

GPS

Global Positioning System: technology that determines precise location.

Satellite

An artificial body placed in orbit around the Earth to collect data and enable remote sensing and GPS.

Google Maps

A digital mapping service that holds geographic data and provides maps.

Difference: GIS vs GPS

GIS analyzes geographic data; GPS determines precise location.

Two main questions of geography

Where are people and activities found on Earth, and why are they found there (including cultural and economic factors)