Geography and Maps: Unit Vocabulary

illustration of a specific area on Earth that is often portrayed on a flat surface

• globe

• scale

• map ley/legend

• map

Answer explanation

A map is a flat representation of a specific area on Earth, showing various features and details. Unlike a globe, which is a 3D representation, a map provides a 2D view, making it the correct choice for this question.

imaginary vertical lines passing through the poles;

they measure distances east and west of the Prime Meridian

• prime meridian

• latitude

• longitude

• equator

Answer explanation

Longitude refers to the imaginary vertical lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole, measuring distances east and west of the Prime Meridian. This distinguishes it from latitude, which measures north and south.

the imaginary line of latitude that circles the globe halfway between the North and South Poles; it's the central line of latitude that is measured at 0°

• prime meridian

• equator

• northern hemisphere

• hemisphere

Answer explanation

The equator is the imaginary line of latitude at 0°, dividing the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. It is located halfway between the North and South Poles, making it the correct answer.

the distance north or south of the Earth’s equator

• prime meridian

• latitude

• longitude

• equator

Answer explanation

The distance north or south of the Earth's equator is measured in degrees and is referred to as latitude. The equator itself is at 0 degrees latitude, while the prime meridian and longitude refer to east-west measurements.

an imaginary line of longitude that runs through Greenwich, England at 0 degrees latitude

• Prime Meridian

• equator

• Tropic of Cancer

• Arctic Circle

Answer explanation

The Prime Meridian is the imaginary line of longitude at 0 degrees, running through Greenwich, England. It serves as the reference point for measuring longitude, distinguishing it from the equator and other lines.

a tool used to measure distances on a map

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this image shows the _________ directions

• intermediate

• compass

• cardinal

• essential

Answer explanation

The image shows cardinal directions, which are the main points of a compass: North, East, South, and West. Intermediate directions are between these, while compass and essential are not specific types of directions.

Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southeast are all ___________ directions

• Cardinal

• Intermediate

• Extra

• Optional

Answer explanation

Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southeast are known as intermediate directions. They are not primary cardinal directions (North, East, South, West) but are derived from them, making 'Intermediate' the correct choice.

a type of map that shows information from the past or where past events took place

• atlas

• political map

• physical map

• historical map

Answer explanation

A historical map specifically shows information about past events and locations, making it the correct choice. In contrast, an atlas is a collection of maps, while political and physical maps focus on current boundaries and terrain.

the study of Earth’s physical and cultural features

• cartography

• geography

• meteorology

• environmental science

Answer explanation

Geography is the study of Earth's physical and cultural features, encompassing landscapes, environments, and human interactions. Cartography focuses on map-making, meteorology studies weather, and environmental science examines ecosystems.