Elements of a Map Types of Maps Geographic Grid Projections

Map Basics Maps are an important tool for studying the Earth’s surface. Today, aerial photography and satellite imaging helps us to gather more accurate data about our earth.

Physical Maps Maps that show the natural features of earth’s surface.

Physical Map

Political Maps Maps that show features that human have created Earth’s surface, such as political boundaries and cities.

Projections A projection is a way of showing the curved surface of Earth on a flat map. Flat maps cannot show sizes, shapes, and directions with total accuracy. As a result, all projections distort some aspect of Earth’s surface.

Homolosine Projection

Mercator Projection

Ari Projection

Robinson Projection

Thematic Maps Geographers also rely on thematic maps, which focus on specific ideas. For example, you will see thematic maps that show climates, types of vegetation, natural resources, population densities, and economic activities. Some thematic maps show historical trends; others may focus on movements of people or ideas.

Growth of the Roman Empire Map

Bantu Migration

Population Literacy Map

Earth’s Tectonic Plates Map

Spread of World Religions

The only model of the earth that is actually to scale is a…….

Globe!!!!