geographic concepts

1.1 intro to maps

what is a reference map?

used to find boundaries of a place, geographic features, or directions. EX: disney world

four types of reference maps

topographic map, political map, physical map, road map.

absolute DIRECTION

-quantitative

-the exact direction you’re headed

-uses cardinal directions (north, south east, west)

-ex: the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

absolute DISTANCE

-quantitative

-exact distance measured between 2 places

-usually measured in miles or kilometers

absolute LOCATION

-quantitative

-exact spot where something is located

-(longitude and latitude)

ex: the coordinates of the Eiffel Tower are approximately 48.8584° N latitude and 2.2945° E longitude.

relative DIRECTION

-qualitative

-direction depends on the surrounding area

-EX: turn left at the gas station.

relative DISTANCE

-qualitative
-approximate measurement between two places

-(usually measured in time/direction)

-ex: the beach is a short drive from my house.

relative LOCATION

-qualitative

-description of a location using surrounding geographic features

-EX: my house is near the water tower and the fire station