Info 1

Introduction to Maps

  • Spatial Patterns: Understanding the arrangement of geographical phenomena in space.

Learning Goals

  • IMP-1.A: Identify types of maps, the types of information presented in maps, and different kinds of spatial patterns and relationships portrayed in maps.

  • IMP-1.B: Identify different methods of geographic data collection.

  • PSO-1.A: Define major geographic concepts that illustrate spatial relationships.

  • Skills: Ability to read and interpret maps, differentiate between quantitative and qualitative data.

Importance of Maps

  • Key questions addressed:

    • Why are maps important?

    • Why do we use them?

Basics of Maps

  • Map: A two-dimensional model of the Earth’s surface, or a portion of it.

    • Purposes of Maps:

    • Reference Tools: Show locations and directions for navigation.

    • Communication Tools: Depict the distribution of human activities and physical features.

  • Cartography: The science of mapmaking.

A Quick History of Cartography

  • The First Maps:

    • Produced in Ancient Babylon.

    • Carved into clay tablets.

    • Limited knowledge of the world reflected in limited content; unknown areas often fabricated.

Eratosthenes’ Map (220 BC)

  • Contributions:

    • Mathematician who coined the term "geography" and calculated the Earth's circumference.

    • Created the first world map.

Ptolemy’s Map (150 CE)

  • Significance:

    • First world map incorporating latitude and longitude.

    • Compiled using information from traders, utilized for over 1000 years.

Evolution of Modern Maps

  • Advancements in science and math shifted mapmaking from artistic to methodical approaches.

  • Exploration and conquest expanded geographical understanding.

  • 1960s Technological Advancements: Cartographers utilized advanced technologies to create detailed, accurate maps.

Geospatial Technologies

  • Remote Sensing:

    • The process of capturing images of Earth’s surface via satellites or airplanes.

    • Applications include land use studies, weather forecasting, disaster impact examination.

  • Global Positioning System (GPS):

    • A satellite-based system determining precise geographic positions.

    • Used in navigation and tracking.

  • Geographic Information System (GIS):

    • A computer system that captures, stores, analyzes, and displays geographic data.

    • Facilitates decision-making based on geographic data.

  • Layers: Types of information displayed in a map (e.g., countries, bodies of water).

  • Mashups: Combining layers on a map for comprehensive analysis.

Types of Data

  • Qualitative Data:

    • Humanistic approach to geography, collected through surveys, interviews, and observations.

    • Expressed narratively, describes debatable aspects.

  • Quantitative Data:

    • Mathematical models and statistical techniques; facts rather than opinions.

    • Gathered through surveys, polls; expressed statistically.

Reading Maps

  • Latitude:

    • Defines the distance north or south of the Equator (0 degrees).

  • Longitude:

    • Defines the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian (0 degrees).

Map Elements

  • Map Key/Legend: An inset on a map that explains the meaning of colors and symbols.

  • Map Scale: Ratio between real-world size and map size, communicated as a ratio, written scale, or line measurement.

  • Toponym: The name assigned to a place on Earth.

Describing Spatial Patterns

  • Location:

    • Relative Location: Describes a place in relation to other locations (e.g., Monterrey's location concerning Mexico City).

    • Absolute Location: Exact geographic coordinates (e.g., Monterrey at 25.6866° N, 100.3161° W).

  • Distance:

    • Relative Distance: Measurement based on metrics like time or effort (e.g., park being 5 minutes away).

    • Absolute Distance: Exact physical distance (e.g., park is 0.4 miles away).

  • Direction:

    • Relative Direction: Direction perceived based on surroundings (e.g., left, right).

    • Absolute Direction: Defined compass directions (e.g., north, south).

  • Density & Distribution:

    • Density: Frequency of occurrence of an element in a space.

    • Distribution: Placement of an element in a space; clustered (high density & low distribution) vs. dispersed (low density & high distribution).

Distance Decay

  • Definition: The theory that interaction (movement of goods, people) decreases with increased distance.

    • Example: Chicago and New York interact more than New York and Miami due to geographic proximity.

Time-Space Compression

  • Definition: The reduction in time to diffuse something over distance due to advancements in communication and transportation technologies.

    • Example: The Internet allows for the rapid sharing of ideas across vast distances, leading to quick and widespread dissemination.