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Map: A map is a two-dimensional representation of an area of land or sea showing physical features, political features, roads, etc.
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Types of maps:
There are two different types of maps- Reference maps and thematic maps.
a. Reference maps: These maps provide basic information. There are four different types:
1. Political maps
2. Physical maps
3. Road maps
4. Plat maps
b. Thematic maps: These maps provide more specific information than reference maps. There are five different types:
Cartograms: A map in which the geometry of the regions are distorted according to specific statistics.
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Choropleth: A map that uses different colors, shadings, or patterns to demonstrate data.
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Isoline/Topographic: A map that uses lines that are drawn on a map connecting points of the same value.
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Graduated symbol: A map that uses different symbols to show different amounts of sizes.
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Dot distribution: A type of map that uses a symbol to demonstrate the geographic distribution.
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Small scale map vs. large scale map.
a. Small scale map: Small scale maps show a larger amount of area with less detail.
b. Large scale map: Large scale maps show a smaller amount of area with greater amount of detail.
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Location | 1. Absolute location: Exact location using latitudes and longitudes. Ex: Paris, France is located at 48.8566 degrees N, 2. 3522 degrees E. 2. Relative location: Not exact location, is used to describe location based on its relationship with another location. Ex: The Target is located right next to my house. |
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Direction | 1. Absolute direction: Exact direction using cardinal points. Ex: Target is southeast of Georgia. 2. Relative direction: Not exact, is used to describe distance based on its relationship with another direction. Ex: Her house is right opposite of mine. |
Distance | 1. Absolute distance: Uses a unit of measurement. Ex: Target is 15 miles away from Walmart. 2. Relative distance: Instead of using a unit of measurement, it is based on an estimate. Ex: This is just around the corner. |
Elevation | The distribution of elevation and changes to it greatly affect how people, things, and ideas move throughout the world. |
Clustering | The distribution and density of things like resources to identify trends. |
Dispersal | Spreading of an idea across spaces. |
b. Peters Projection:
1. Purpose: This projection is mainly used for spatial distributions related to area.
2. Strengths: Preserves size/land area.
3. Weaknesses: Distorts shape
c. Robinson Projection:
1. Purpose: This projection is used generally.
2. Strengths: No major distortion.
3. Weaknesses: Area, shape, size, and direction are all slightly distorted.