Map Projections and the RING OF

FIRE

What is a projection?

It is difficult to translate a spherical GLOBE onto a flat MAP. Over the years, cartographers (map-makers) have found a few different ways to do it.

We call these different ways of turning a globe into a map PROJECTIONS because often they are done by using a light to project the globe onto a flat surface.

Cartography Cartography is the science and art of

graphically representing a defined geographical area by means of a map.

Cartography is the art of translating the spherical globe onto a flat map so there is the least amount of distortion

All projections distort certain areas of the map. This has been a contentious issue for centuries. Which areas should be the biggest? Which part of the globe should be in the center? At the top?

However, many maps are created to solve practical problems

Mercator Projection

Mercator Projection Pros: The ONLY projection in which a line drawn in a

certain direction on the map is really that way on the Earth’s surface.

Cons: The size of land near the poles is MUCH bigger than it really is (Greenland is as big as Africa).

Equal Area Projection Excellent with size/shape Bad w/ direction & distance Ugly! Splits in map = “interruptions”

Robinson Projection

• Compromise b/t size and shape• More accurate overall

representation• Golden map for most geographers

Dymaxion Projection

Made by Buckminster Fuller, one of my heroes. Doesn’t distort any part of the globe. Shows all the continents as one “island of all humanity” surround by one global ocean.

Latitude and Longitude

Latitude (FLATitude) Runs East-West. Lines never meet. Lines of latitude are always

the same distance apart from each other

Can be found with a compass. The compass was invented by the Chinese in the 1300’s

Longitude

Runs North-South. All lines meat at North and

South poles. Lines of longitude are

farthest apart at the equator, and closer together near the poles.

Took explorers and sea captains hundreds of years to figure out how to find latitude. An accurate clock is needed. Or, a sextant can be used (very difficult)

Using Latitude and Longitude

For LONGITUDE, the prime meridian is 0 and passes through Greenwich, England.

Going East or West, lines of Longitude increase until 180 degrees which is the International Date Line.

For LATITUDE, the equator is 0 and is exactly halfway between the North and South poles.

Going North or South, lines of Latitude increase to 90 degrees which is the pole.

A point on the earth is always listed Latitude, Longitude. For example: Denver, CO is 39 degrees N, 104 degrees W

Now, it is your turn. Graph the Volcanoes on

your own map using latitude and longitude

Reading p. G7 – G11 Answer questions on activity sheet

Exit Slip1: Name one state in the USA are that is most likely to have a volcanic eruption.

2: What is an advantage and a disadvantage to the Mercator projection?