Map projections are ways to represent the Earth's curved surface on a flat map. Because the Earth is a sphere, projecting it onto a flat surface always involves some distortion. Different projections distort shape, area, distance, or direction in varying ways. Map scale indicates the relationship between a distance on a map and the corresponding distance on the ground. Understanding scale is crucial for accurately interpreting distances and sizes on maps.
This worksheet will test your knowledge of map projections and scale, helping you understand how maps represent our world and how to interpret them effectively. Let's get started!
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Terms | Definitions |
|---|---|
| 1. Map Projection | A. The relationship between a distance on a map and the corresponding distance on the ground. |
| 2. Scale | B. A line on a map that represents a specific distance on the Earth's surface. |
| 3. Distortion | C. A way to represent the Earth's curved surface on a flat map. |
| 4. Representative Fraction | D. The alteration of the shape, area, distance, or direction when projecting the Earth onto a flat surface. |
| 5. Bar Scale | E. A scale that is shown as a ratio, such as 1:100,000 |
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided: shape, area, distance, scale, projections.
Map __________ are used to represent the Earth on a flat surface. However, all __________ introduce some form of distortion, affecting either the __________, __________, or __________ of features. Understanding map __________ is crucial for accurately interpreting maps.
Why is it impossible to create a perfectly accurate flat map of the Earth? Explain in 2-3 sentences.
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