Everyone came across geographical maps at school. However, not all of us have an idea about their purpose and know how to use them. Today's youth believe that they do not need this knowledge, since navigators are now widespread.
What is a geographic map of the world?
The map is a reduced image of the Earth's surface, which is built according to certain laws. Visibility and clarity are its most important properties.
The main components of any card are:
- map projection - the mathematical law of image construction;
- image itself;
- auxiliary elements - legend, reference information;
- additional elements - tie-ins, terrain profiling, graphs, diagrams, photographs, tabular data, etc.
Types of maps
Geographic maps of our time - a compilation of knowledge about the planet, which was the result of research by ancient scientists and was transmitted overmany centuries. Without knowledge of the simplest laws, cartographers could not reflect information on maps so accurately. The modern geographical map of the world can be classified according to two criteria:
- scale - large, medium and small scale;
- the subject or content of the map - general geographical, political, navigational, economic, scientific and reference, etc.
The theme of the card can be absolutely any type. For example, a geographical map of the countries of the world contains information about all states, shows their location. Topographic maps are intended for engineering studies.
Applications
The geographical map of the world has found application in all areas of knowledge. Thanks to maps, people can get acquainted with the area without direct contact with it. Therefore, they have found application in travel guides, astronautics, navigation, geological exploration of natural resources, agriculture, construction, education, military affairs and many other areas.
The geographical map of the world is one of the most important inventions of mankind. Maps are used in almost all areas of knowledge. People in certain professions usually know what type of maps they need for their work. Modern means of navigation are gradually replacing maps. However, no one is immune from the failure of equipment, so the ability to understand the cards is necessary.
