Map Projections And Distortions

A map projection is a method to flatten an earth’s surface into a plane to make a geographical map. All map projections introduce distortions compared to maps on globes. The basic problem inherent in any type of map projection is that it will result in some distortion of the ‘ground truth’ of

Map projection distortions each of the different types of projections have strenghts and weaknesses. Map projections and distortion converting a sphere to a flat surface results in distortion. Additionally, distance distortion is often present on equal area map projection, and, shape is often skewed.

If the world were indeed flat, cartography would be much simpler because map projections would be unnecessary.

Areas — relative size of objects (such as continents) directions — azimuths (angles between points and the poles) distances — relative separations of points (such as a set of cities) A map projection is a transformation of the locations on a sphere or ellipsoid into locations on a plane. Distortions are inherent in flattening the sphere, and can take several forms: Scale distortions on maps are shown on the map by an ellipse of distortion or using scale factor which is the ratio of the scale at a given point to the true scale.