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8ES Chp 3: Maps
8th Grade Earth Science Chapter 3: Maps and Mapping Leach
Term | Definition |
---|---|
map | A model of an area of the earth's surface. |
map scale | The ratio of a distance represented on a map to the same distance on the earth's surface; indicated with two numbers separated by a colon. |
cartographer | A person that makes maps. |
cardinal direction | One of the four key geographic directions: north, south, east, or west |
Equator | The great circle of latitude perpendicular to the earth's rotational axis; also is 0 degrees latitude and divides the earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. |
parallel | A line of latitude; any line on a map or globe parallel to the Equator including the Equator itself as well as all the small circles that are perpendicular to the axis of the earth. |
meridian | A line of longitude; any line on a map perpendicular to parallels that indicates the direction of true north. |
geographic coordinates | The latitude and longitude used to locate a point on the earth's surface. |
map projection | The transfer of geographic information from a 3D globe onto the 2D surface of a map; which always distort geographic information. |
contour line | Any line on a relief map that connects points of equal elevation above or below sea level. |
thematic map | A map that displays certain kinds of related information to produce a unified theme. |
geographic information system | A system that uses digital map data, programs, hardware, and data storage systems to create and display information on maps; particularly useful in that users can add or remove layers of data to show geographic relationships |
latitude | Also known as parallels; any line on a map or globe parallel to the Equator. |
longitude | Also known as meridians; any line on a map, perpendicular to parallels that indicates the direction of true north. |
Prime Meridian | The semicircle on the globe that connects the North and South Poles and passes through Greenwich, England. |