Chapter 1: Maps as Models of the Earth

A landscape refers to the physical features of the Earth’s surface found in an area. 3 types: 1. Mountains: landforms characterized by steep sides and narrow tops that reach high elevations.

2. Plains: large, flat landscape that does not rise high above sea level. 3. Plateau: large, flat landscape that rises high above sea level.

The Earth is divided into different sections by vertical lines called meridians. The distance east or west of the prime meridian (0) is called longitude. These are the vertical lines on a globe.

The horizontal lines on a globe tell us latitude The horizontal lines on a globe tell us latitude. This is a measure of how far north or south of the equator (0) a location is.

Based on its rotation, the Earth has been divided into 24 time zones, or a longitudinal section of Earth that have the same local time.

The Earth rotates 15 each hour The Earth rotates 15 each hour. This means that in one day (24 hours) the Earth rotates 360. Note: 15 x 24 hours = 360

The study of the shape of the Earth’s surface is called topography The study of the shape of the Earth’s surface is called topography. This includes changes in elevation and surface features such as lakes, mountains, etc.

A map that shows the different shapes and sizes of a land surface is called a topographic map. These maps also show such landmarks as schools, highways, bridges, lakes, and swamps.

Topographic maps use contour lines to show changes in elevation Topographic maps use contour lines to show changes in elevation. A contour line is a line that passes through all points on a map that have the same elevation.

The difference in elevation between one contour line and the next is called the contour interval. Closely spaced contour lines: steep slope Widely spaced contour lines: gentle slope