Earth Science 2.7 and 2.8

2.7 Maps
2.8 Map Projections

Multiple Choice

What is this map tool called?

• scale

• map

• compass rose

• map title

What information does a map show?

• Maps can convey a variety of information.

• They can tell you where you are and provide details about a location.

• Different maps show different types of information.

Maps as models

• A map is a picture of specific parts of Earth’s surface.

• Different maps provide different types of information.

• Example: Road maps help you navigate on a road trip.

Map legends

• The legend explains the symbols and features on the map.

• Example: A scale of miles shows the distance represented on the map.

• Most maps orient north at the top.

Types of maps

• Political/Geographic Maps: Show state and country borders.

• Satellite Maps: Display terrains and vegetation.

• Relief Maps: Show elevations and contours.

• Topographic Maps: Provide detailed elevation features.

• Climate Maps: Indicate average temperatures and rainfall.

• Precipitation Maps: Show the amount of rainfall in different areas.

• Weather Maps: Track storms, air masses, and fronts.

• Radar Maps: Visualize storms and rainfall.

• Geologic Maps: Detail the types and locations of rocks.

Multiple Choice

Use the map legend to answer the questions.  The triangles are a symbol for?

• Mountains
• River
• Railroad
• River

Summary

• Maps are two-dimensional representations of a surface, usually Earth's.

• They use symbols and legends to display complex information efficiently.

• There are many types of maps, each designed to show different types of information.

2.8 Map projections

​How does Greenland change size?

Does Greenland really change size?

• No, Greenland does not change size! It's about how the map is made.

• Different map projections make Greenland appear larger or smaller.

What is map projection?

• Earth is a three-dimensional sphere.

• To map Earth on flat paper, mapmakers use projections.

• Projections can cause distortions, especially near the poles.

Multiple Choice

A way of representing the spherical Earth on a flat surface.

• Map Projection
• Distortion

Multiple Choice

The change in shape, size, or location of a place when shown on a map.

• Map Projection
• Distortion

Mercator projection

• Created by Gerardus Mercator in 1569.

• Wraps a flat sheet of paper around a cylindrical model of Earth.

• Distorts sizes near the poles, making Greenland look much larger.

Conic projection

• Uses a cone shape to map Earth.

• Better represents regions near the poles.

• Reduces distortion compared to the Mercator projection.

Gnomonic projection

• Projects Earth’s surface onto a flat piece of paper placed on one point.

• Accurate near the point of contact but distorts areas further away.

• Often used to map the poles.

Robinson projection

• Developed by Arthur Robinson in 1963.

• Uses mathematical formulas to reduce distortion.

• Shapes and sizes of continents are closer to their true dimensions.

Summary

• Map projections show Earth’s three-dimensional surface in two dimensions.

• All projections cause some distortion.

• Greenland’s size varies on different projections due to how they represent the poles.