This document discusses various tools used by geographers. It describes globes as 3D representations of Earth that are not portable, and maps as 2D graphic representations that are portable but distort Earth's surface. It also discusses satellites that provide geographic data, Geographic Information Systems that combine data layers, and GPS systems that transmit locations. The document outlines different types of maps and map projections, including planar, conical, cylindrical, and Mercator projections.

1. Geographer’s Tools Chapter 1, Section 2

2. Globe 3-dimensional representation of the earth Not practical because it’s not portable

3. Maps 2-dimensional graphic representations of selected parts of the earth’s surface Advantage – easily portable and drawn to scale Disadvantage – distorts earth’s surface

4. Cartographer – map maker

5. Types of Maps 1. General reference map (or topographic map) – represents natural and man-made features on the earth

6. Types of Maps 2. Thematic maps – emphasizes specific kinds of information

7. Types of Maps 3. Navigational maps – used mostly by sailors and pilots

8. Satellites Provide the majority of geographic data Landsat – series of satellites that orbit more than 100 miles above the earth Scans the entire earth in 16 days

9. Satellites Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite (GOES) – weather satellite that flies in orbit at the same speed as the earth

10. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Combines information from a variety of sources Layers appropriate information Creates a composite map

11. Global Positioning System (GPS) Originally developed for military Uses a series of 24 satellites (Navstars) which transmits exact location to a hand-held receiver

12. Map Projections Geography Skills handbook

13. Planar Projection Projection on a flat surface Distorts size and shape Shows the shortest distance between 2 points

14. Conical Projection Projection onto a cone Shapes are accurate, but it distorts landmasses at the edge of the picture

15. Cylindrical Projection Projection onto a cylinder Shows entire earth on one map 3 different types

16. Mercator Map Shapes of continents are distorted at the poles and compressed at the equator

17. Interrupted Map Oceans are divided Shows accurate shapes and sizes of landmasses Distances are not correct

18. Robinson Projection Most commonly used Shows entire earth with nearly true sizes and shapes Landforms near poles are flat

19. Physical Map Shows landforms and bodies of water

20. Political Map Shows man-made features such as cities and borders

21. Qualitative Maps Use colors, symbols, dots or lines to help you see patterns related to a specific idea

22. Cartograms Information is presented based on data instead of land area

23. Flow-line Maps Illustrate movement of people, goods, ideas, animals or even glaciers