Answer in Paragraph

MAPPING SKILLS

VII. Answer in Paragraph

1. What do you mean by the term 'scale of the map'? Explain its classification.

Scale:

• Scale makes it possible to reduce the size of the whole earth to show it on a piece of paper.

• A scale is a ratio between the actual distance on the map to the actual distance on the ground.

• Scales can be represented in three methods. They are the Statement, Representative Fraction (R.F) and Linear or Graphical scale methods.

Statement scale:

• The statement scale describes the relationship of map distance to ground distance in words, such as one centimetre to ten kilometres. It is expressed as 1cm = 10 km.

The Representative Fraction (R.F):

• It describes the proportion or ratio of the map distance to ground distance. It is usually abbreviated as R.F. It is stated as 1/100000 (or) 1:100000.

Representative Fraction (R.F.) = Distance on the map /  Distance on the ground

Linear (or) Graphical scale :

• In a map, a linear scale is represented by a straight line divided into equal parts (primary and secondary) to show what these markings represent on the actual ground.

• This scale helps in the direct measurement of distance on the map.

2. Write a note on directions with relevant diagram.

Direction

• Maps are drawn normally with north orientation. North direction in a map is always towards the North Pole of the earth.

• lf you position yourself looking at the North Pole, on your right will be the east; your left will be the west; at your back will be south.

• These four main directions are called the cordinal directions.

• Direction is usually indicated on a map by a North-South line, with the North direction represented by an arrow head.

3. Explain the major uses of GPS? Explain about any one.

Advantages of GPS:

• GPS technology has tremendous applications in everything from mobile phones, watches, bulldozers, shipping containers and ATMs.

• The main purpose of GPS is to help in providing accurate transport data (distance, route and direction). It helps in military searches and rescue in wars. It can work as a reliable tourist guide.

• GPS helps during accident and rescue efforts, speeding the delivery of emergency services and disaster relief.

• Weather forecasting, earthquake monitoring and environmental protection can be done effectively by using GPS.