A map is a visual representation of an entire world or a part of the earth, represented on a flat surface drawn to scale. Maps attempt to represent both physical and cultural features like relief, climate, natural resources, political boundaries, roads, population and economic activities. This chapter covers the components of a map, the scale and its three forms, measurement of distance and area on a map, and the enlargement and reduction of maps.
1. Components of a Map
The basic components of a map are title, legend, direction, scale and source. A map also gives the extent of latitude and longitude of the area mapped.
| Component | What it does | Where it is placed |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Tells about the content of the map | Mostly at the top centre or at the bottom centre of the map |
| Scale | Ratio between the distance of two places on the map and their corresponding distance on the ground; expressed as a statement, a representative fraction or a linear scale | At a prominent place – just below the title or somewhere at the bottom |
| Legend | Explains the different signs and symbols used in a map | Usually at the left or right corner at the bottom of the map |
| Direction | By convention the top of the map is oriented towards north; shown by an arrow pointing upward (sometimes a Compass Rose is used instead of an arrow) | Top right corner of the map |
| Source | Every map must give the source of the data used | Outside the frame of the map on the bottom right; on the bottom left the name of the author, publisher, place of publication and year of publication |