Reading Guide: Geography Basics

Why are longitude and latitude useful to geographers?

• Any location on Earth can be described using longitude and latitude.
• Lines of longitude and latitude help with the development of mental maps.
• Lines of latitude help with the establishment of different time zones.

Which state has the highest latitude?

• Hawaii
• Alaska
• Texas
• New York

When might you want to use a Robinson Projection instead of a Mercator Projection?

• When comparing the sizes of high and low latitude land masses
• When determining directions for ship navigation near the equator
• When it is necessary to see the earth in three dimensions.

How are maps different from globes?

• Maps are more expensive than globes.
• Globes are easier to carry and store than maps.
• Globes are less distorted than maps.
• Only maps can show the Earth in three dimensions.

Which of the following is an intermediate direction?

• West
• Southeast
• South
• North

Which of the following would be found on a political map?

• mountain ranges
• river systems
• deserts
• cities

What is the absolute location of the Capital Building?

• At the end of Pensylvania Avenue
• 38 degrees 54" North, 77 degrees 2" West
• North of the Potomac River
• Parallel to the Washington Monument

What part of the map is indicated by the number 4?

• map scale
• map legend
• inset map
• compass

Which region of South Asia has the highest elevation?

• Southern
• Central
• Northern
• Southeastern

Which of the following is not one of the major rivers of South Asia?

• Brahmaputra
• Ganges
• Indus
• Nile