How maps and globes represent our Earth?

Maps and Globes Map is a flat model of all or part of Earth. Globe is a sphere that represents Earth’s entire surface. Maps and globes are drawn to scale and use symbols to represent topography and other features of Earth’s surface. Key is a list of all the symbols used on the map.

Equator and Prime Meridian Equator and Prime Meridian are the baselines for a grid used to locate positions on Earth’s surface. To locate positions on the Earth’s surface, scientists use units called degrees. Equator forms an imaginary line that circles the Earth. The Equator divides Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. Prime Meridian is an imaginary line from the North Pole to the South Pole. Divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

Latitude and Longitude Latitude lines are identified as being north or south of the equator. Longitude lines are east and west of the prime meridian.

Map Projections Mercator projections is based on a cylinder with grid lines that has been flattened. On the Mercator projections, lines of longitude are parallel, so shapes near the poles are distorted. An equal –area projection shows areas correctly, but distorts some shapes around the edges. A conic projection is based on a cone that covers part of Earth and is rolled out flat. A conic projection’s grid is formed from straight lines of longitude and curved lines of latitude. Computers produce maps using data from many sources, including satellites and GPS.