Pratical Work In Geography Chapter 1 Introduction To Maps

It is an important element of a map because it gives relative feature of the ground reality. It shows the relationship between the distance on the earth and on the piece of paper.

1. A map is representation of an area on a flatsheet of paper.

2. Maps are drawn on a definite scale. Without scale, a map is simply a rough sketch.

3. Conventional signs are used to show the various features of the earth surface.

4. Maps have two dimensions - length and breadth.

A chart is simply a diagram showing the different types of statistics. Charts are generally used to show the ocean routes.

The word plan is used for property maps of cadastral maps. These have a scale larger than 6'=1 mile. Then shows the details of the property of land or a building.

1. The whole earth cannot be studied from a globe.

2. Globe do not show a large number of details. These can be shown on map.

3. Distance cannot be measured on a globe because it is a curved surface.

4. Maps can be easily handled.

5. A comparative study of two areas is not possible on a globe.

6. Maps can be easily incorporated in books or bounded in Atlas.

They are large in size. These have a scale of 6' = 1 mile. These show the details of buildings and property.

These, maps are of following four types on the basis of scale :

1. Cadastral maps : These maps show full details of buildings and properties and are known as ‘plans’.

2. Topographical maps : Survey of India prepares these maps on a scale of 1:50,000 or inch : 1 mile. These are large scale maps showing the natural and man-made features of an area.

3. Wall maps : These are small scale maps used for educational purposes.

4. Atlas maps : These are small scale maps, bound together in the form of an Atlas. These are best suited for eduational purposes.

2. Linear scale : This scale is expressed as a straight line. The base is calibrated to express visual equivalents of representative fraction or verbal scale. The basis are divided into a number of equal parts and are marked to show that these divisions represent on actual ground. The scale has the advantage that it remains true even after reduction or enlargement of the map. Distances on the map are smaller than the corresponding distance on actual ground.

3. Base direction line : Direction has been defined as an imaginary straight line on the map or the ground showing the angular position of various maps with respect to a common base direction. The time pointing to the north is regarded as the zero direction or base direction line.

According to scale :

1. Large scale maps : These maps represent small area of the earth on a large size of paper sheet with greater details. Examples: Cadastral maps, topographical maps.

2. Small scale maps : These maps represent large areas on a small sheet of paper. They have fewer details. Examples are Atlas and Wall maps.

According to purpose they are :

1. Physical or natural maps : Such as relief maps include features like plains, plateaus and mountains.

2. Cultural maps : These maps show the man-made features or human aspects such as political and historical maps.