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