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Chapter 1: Problem 21

Describe the differences between the characteristics of a globe and those that result when a flat map is prepared.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The primary difference lies in the level of distortion. A globe, being three-dimensional, provides a more accurate depiction of size, shape, distance, and direction of geographical features without any distortion. A flat map, due to its two-dimensional nature, involves distortions in representing these elements due to the challenges of projecting a spherical object onto a flat surface.

Step by step solution

01

Characteristics of a Globe

A globe is a spherical representation of the Earth's surface. It provides the most accurate depiction in terms of size, shape, distance, and direction of geographical features. When looking at a globe, there is hardly any distortion in these elements.
02

Characteristics of a Flat Map

A flat map, on the other hand, is a two-dimensional representation, which inherently involves some distortion. Although easier to carry and replicate, flat maps cannot depict all aspects of the Earth accurately. Depending on the kind of projection used (like Mercator, Gall-Peters, etc.), there could be distortion in the size, shape, distance, or direction of geographical features.
03

Contrast between Globe and Flat Map

The primary difference between a globe and a flat map hence is the level of distortion in representing the Earth's surface. A globe, being a three-dimensional body, can effectively simulate the Earth's roundness, thus maintaining proportionality and accuracy, while a flat map due to its two-dimensional nature involves compromises in certain depictions due to the challenges of projecting a spherical object onto a flat plane.

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