Geography 2122A/B Chapter 10: Chapter 10.docx
Document Summary
Map accuracy closeness of the map representation to the geographic phenomena. Maps are graphical representation of a geographical setting; a collection of symbols used to represent a portion of the earth. All maps are concerned with two primary elements locations and attributes. All maps are reductions of reality and therefore require scale conversions. All maps are transformations of space involving applications of map projections and coordinate systems. All are also abstractions of reality and therefore require generalization of the geographic information. All maps use signs and symbolism; this is called cartographic symbolization. Maps must maintain their connection to and present a useful representation of reality. This has to be balanced against scale, projection, generalization, and symbolism requirements. Some degree of representational quality has to be sacrificed. The ability to show detail on a map is determined by its scale because that dictates the amount of space available.