Exam review stuff human geo

What is map distortion?

Changes in shape, direction, distance, or size of areas on a map.

What are Goode’s Interrupted/Homolosine projections known for?

They have less distortion compared to other projections.

What does the Mercator projection offer despite its distortions?

Good direction and distance; useful for sea travel.

Define thematic maps.

Maps that represent specific themes or data patterns.

What is an isopleth map?

A type of thematic map illustrating equal value lines, such as elevation.

What is the difference between absolute distance and relative distance?

Absolute distance is measured in quantitative terms; relative distance is measured in time or context, like '20 minutes south'.

What does GPS stand for?

Global Positioning System, used for satellite navigation.

What is the primary focus of Environmental Determinism?

Human actions are heavily influenced by environmental conditions.

What does the acronym LACEMOPS represent?

Latitude, Air masses, Continentality, Elevation, Mountain barriers, Ocean currents, Pressure cells, Storms - factors affecting climate.

What is expansion diffusion?

The spread of a feature or trend through a population.

What does the term 'nation-state' refer to?

A recognized political unit where the territorial state coincides with a specific cultural group's area.

What is the significance of the International Date Line?

It separates time zones around the globe.

What does the term 'gerrymandering' mean?

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to benefit a particular political party.

Define centripetal forces.

Forces that unite a state.

What is devolution in a political context?

The transfer of power from the central government to regional governments.

Explain the term 'Centrifugal forces'.

Forces that pull a state apart.

What do the terms 'formal region', 'functional region', and 'perceptual region' refer to?

Formal region: areas defined by common characteristics; Functional region: areas organized around a node; Perceptual region: areas defined by cultural identity.

What is the core-periphery model in Wallerstein’s world systems theory?

A three-tier structure where Core represents advanced processes, Periphery represents less developed processes, and Semi-periphery incorporates both.

Define imperialism.

The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or other means.

What is the Organic Theory in political geography?

Friedrich Ratzel's theory that likens a state to a living organism needing to grow and thrive.

What are superimposed boundaries?

Boundaries that are forcibly drawn across a unified landscape without regard to cultural factors.

What does the term 'self-determinism' refer to?

The power of a group to establish their own government and run their affairs.