Geography Basics and Key Terms

Globe

A three-dimensional representation of the earth.

Map

Two-dimensional graphic representations of selected parts of the earth's surface.

Cartographer

A person who makes maps or charts.

Geography

The study of the distribution and interaction of physical and human features on the earth.

Absolute location

The exact place on earth where a geographic feature is found.

Relative location

A place in comparison to other places around it.

Hemisphere

Each half of the globe.

Equator

An imaginary line that divides the north and south halves of the earth.

Prime meridian

The imaginary line dividing the earth east and west.

Parallels of latitude

A set of imaginary lines that run parallel to the equator.

Meridians of longitude

A set of imaginary lines that go around the earth and through both north and south poles.

Location

Where is it?

Place

What is it like there?

Region

How are places similar or different?

Human-Environment Interaction

How do people relate to the physical world?

Movement

How do people, goods, ideas, and money move from one location to another?

Meridians of longitude

Lines around earth that intersect both poles and mark position E and W of prime meridian.

Scale models

Models that represent the size and proportions of real objects.

General reference maps

Maps that show natural and man-made features of the earth.

Thematic maps

Maps that provide specific information such as climate or population.

Navigational charts

Charts used by pilots and sailors.