1.1.2 types of spatial patterns

absolute location

exact/precise.

relative location

in relation to another place.

absolute distance

exact, mi/km/ft

ex: Oak Hills is 21.3 miles from my house.

relative distance

spatial interaction: connects, contacts, movement. flow of things between places.

ex: ordering in prime can get me anything in 2 days.

absolute direction

exact cardinal directions: NSEW

relative direction

relative relationships, turn left at Target, then right at the 2nd stop sign.

clustering

close together, density: # of something in a defined area.

dispersal/distribution

far apart

distribution: way something is spread over an area.

patterns and spatial associations

indicates 2+ phenomena may be related, associated, or correlated w one another.

map projection

process of showing a curved surface on a flat surface.

earth → map.

what to look for in map distortions (SADD)

shape

area

distance

direction

mercator (1569)

purpose: navigation

positives: direction, shape, navigation, preserves 90 degrees angles of longitude and latitude.

disadvantages: areas by poles are distorted, increases size of high latitude areas

hint: if greenland and africa look similarly sized, it’s probably this type!

peter’s equal area

positives: area of landmasses are accurate, repositioned many countries to their rightful sizes.

disadvantages: shapes inaccurate near poles, vertically stretched near equator.

robinson

purpose: compromise

positives: no major distortions

disadvantages: all aspects are slightly distorted (SADD)