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Map Projection: Comparison
Please note this is a comparison between Version 2 by Encyclopedia Editorial Office and Version 1 by Encyclopedia Editorial Office.

A map projection is a systematic mathematical transformation that represents all or part of the Earth’s curved surface on a flat plane [1][2]. It transforms geographic coordinates, typically latitude and longitude on a sphere or ellipsoid, into planar coordinates that can be used to construct maps [1][2]. Because a curved surface cannot be flattened without geometric distortion, every map projection alters at least one spatial property, such as area, shape, distance, direction, or scale. Different projections preserve particular properties or balance distortions according to their intended use. Equal-area projections preserve area relationships, conformal projections preserve local angles, and equidistant projections preserve specified distances or distance relationships [1][3]. The suitability of a projection depends on the geographic extent and location being mapped, the purpose of the map, and the spatial properties that need to be represented accurately [1][2]. Map projection is therefore a fundamental concept in cartography and spatial analysis because it determines how geographic positions and spatial relationships are represented on a plane [2][3].

 

  • map projection
  • cartography
  • geographic coordinates
  • planar coordinates
  • projection distortion
  • equal-area projection
  • conformal projection
  • equidistant projection

Geographic Information Systems Studies • Geography, Planning and Development • Social Sciences • Social Sciences

References

  1. John P. Snyder. Map projections: A working manual; US Geological Survey: Nashville, TN, United States, 1987. [CrossRef]
  2. Sarah Battersby; Map Projections. The Geographic Information Science & Technology Body of Knowledge 2017, 2, 7. [CrossRef]
  3. John P. Snyder; Philip M. Voxland. An album of map projections; US Geological Survey: Nashville, TN, United States, 1989. [CrossRef]
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