Geographer’s Tools
Chapter 1, Section 2
Globe
3-dimensional representation of the earthNot practical because it’s not portable
Maps2-dimensional graphic representations of
selected parts of the earth’s surfaceAdvantage – easily portable and drawn to
scaleDisadvantage – distorts earth’s surface
Cartographer – map maker
Types of Maps
1. General reference map (or topographic map) – represents natural and man-made features on the earth
Types of Maps2. Thematic maps – emphasizes specific kinds of
information
Types of Maps
3. Navigational maps – used mostly by sailors and pilots
Satellites
Provide the majority of geographic data
Landsat – series of satellites that orbit more than 100 miles above the earth Scans the entire earth in
16 days
Satellites Geostationary
Operational Environment Satellite (GOES) – weather satellite that flies in orbit at the same speed as the earth
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Combines information from a variety of sources
Layers appropriate information
Creates a composite map
Global Positioning System (GPS) Originally developed for military Uses a series of 24 satellites (Navstars) which
transmits exact location to a hand-held receiver
Map Projections
Geography Skills handbook
Planar Projection
Projection on a flat surface
Distorts size and shape
Shows the shortest distance between 2 points
Conical Projection Projection onto a
cone Shapes are accurate,
but it distorts landmasses at the edge of the picture
Cylindrical Projection
Projection onto a cylinder
Shows entire earth on one map
3 different types
Mercator Map Shapes of continents are distorted at the poles and
compressed at the equator
Interrupted Map Oceans are divided Shows accurate shapes and sizes of landmasses Distances are not correct
Robinson Projection Most commonly used Shows entire earth with nearly true sizes and
shapes Landforms near poles are flat
Physical Map
Shows landforms and bodies of water
Political Map
Shows man-made features such as cities and borders
Qualitative Maps Use colors, symbols, dots or lines to help you see
patterns related to a specific idea
Cartograms Information is presented based on data instead of
land area
Flow-line Maps Illustrate movement of people, goods, ideas,
animals or even glaciers