Mercator projection A map projection created by Mercator using a cylinder wrapped
around the Earth.
projection A way to represent a three dimensional surface in two dimensions.
Points to Consider
- Imagine you are a pilot and must fly from New York to Paris. Use a globe and a world
map to do the following:- Plot your course from New York to Paris on a globe. Make it the shortest distance
possible. - Measure the distance by using the scale, a ruler, and a string.
- Draw the course from the globe on a world map.
- Draw a line on the map connecting New York and Paris.
- Plot your course from New York to Paris on a globe. Make it the shortest distance
- How does the course on the globe compare with the line on the map? Which is the
shortest distance? Write a brief paragraph describing the differences and explain why
they are different. - Would you choose a map that used a Mercator projection if you were going to explore
Antarctica? Explain why this would not be a good choice. What other type of map
would be better? - Maps use a scale, which means a certain distance on the map equals a larger distance
on Earth. Why are maps drawn to scale? What would be some problems you would
have with a map that did not use a scale?
2.3 Topographic Maps
Lesson Objectives
- Describe a topographic map.
- Explain what information a topographic map contains.
- Explain how to read and interpret a topographic map.
- Explain how various earth scientists use topographic maps to study the Earth.
What is a Topographic Map?
Mapping is a crucial part of earth science. Topographic mapsrepresent the locations of
major geological features. Topographic maps use a special type of line, called acontour
line, to show different elevations on a map. Contour lines are drawn on a topographic map
to show the location of hills, mountains and valleys. When you use a regular road map, you