GIS, Land Use Change, and Map Scale

Flashcards covering GIS, land-use change, and the three types of map scale (graphic/bar scale, verbal scale, and representative fraction), as discussed in the lecture notes.

GIS (Geographic Information System)

A computer-based system that captures, stores, analyzes, and displays spatial data; used in land-use planning and urban development.

Land use

The management and modification of natural resources for human activities such as farming, housing, or industry.

Urban planning / Urban development

The process of designing and managing a city’s growth, land use, and infrastructure.

Subdivision

A tract of land that has been divided into smaller lots for housing or development.

Map

A visual representation of an area that shows spatial relationships and features.

Scale (maps)

The relationship between distances on a map and distances in the real world.

Graphic scale (bar scale)

A visual distance scale on a map (often a bar) that shows units of measure.

Verbal scale

A scale expressed in words, e.g., 'one inch equals one mile'.

Representative fraction / ratio scale

A scale expressed as a ratio like 1:24,000, indicating map distance to real-world distance.

Appropriate map scale

Choosing a scale that fits the area of interest; using an inappropriate scale can make a map misleading.