Blog Post #5 - Interpreting Maps

September 18th, 2019

Interpreting Maps

          Geographers describe where things are through scales and projections. A map scale is a ratio of the distance on a map that corresponds with the distance on the ground. Map scales are usually shown as ratios or fractions (ex: 1:5,000 or 1/5,000). Projections are the method of transferring the spherical earth to a flat surface known as a map. When projecting a map we run into many different problems. First, shapes become distorted and unproportioned making the map different from the real world. Next, the distance between objects become increased/decreased because of the differences between the map and reality. The direction between points on the map also become distorted. Lastly, the size of areas on maps become larger than they actually are in reality.
          Cartographers create lines of longitude and latitude to help show the distortions of the map to the viewer. Meridians are imaginary lines of longitude that go north to south on a map. Parallels are the invisible lines of latitude that go from east to west. These lines also help map viewers find the absolute location of objects and landmarks.

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