Thinking Geographically - Introduction to Maps

Flashcards about maps and spatial patterns

What is the purpose of reference maps?

To provide general information about places.

Name two main reference maps.

Political and physical maps.

What is the primary use of thematic maps?

To communicate how human activities are distributed.

Name four types of thematic maps mentioned in the notes.

Cartogram, Choropleth, Dot Density, and Isoline.

List spatial patterns that can be represented on a map.

Average Temperature and US Oil Consumption.

What is indicated through proportional symbols on a map?

Absolute and relative values.

What does clustering represent as a spatial pattern?

Features that are grouped or bunched together.

What does dispersal describe as a spatial pattern?

Features that appear to be distributed over a wide area.

How is elevation depicted on a map?

Using levels to show how high or low something is located on the land.

What distortions can occur in map projections?

Distortion in shape, size, distance, and direction.