Chapter 1 Section 2The Geographer’s Tools

Main Ideas &

Place and Terms

Main Ideas

Geographers use two and three-dimensional tools to learn about the earth.

Geographers use computer assisted technology to study the use of the earth’s surface.

Globe-a three dimensional representation of the earth.

Problem- Only one half of the world can be seen at any time.

Map-two-dimensional graphic representations of selected parts of the earth’s surface.

Advantages- Easily portabledrawn to scale

Disadvantages-distortion can occur

Cartographer-A person who makes maps.

Can reduce distortion but using different types of map projections.

Map Projection-A way of drawing the earth’s surface that reduces distortion caused by presenting a round earth on flat paper.

Topographic Map-a type of map that represents natural and man-made features on the earth.

Thematic maps emphasize specific kinds of information, such as climate or population density.

Landsat-A series of satellites that orbit more than 100 miles above the Earth. Each time a satellite makes an orbit, it picks up data in an 115 miles wide. The Landsat can scan the entire Earth in 16 days.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-A digital database that has the ability to combine information from a variety of sources and display it in ways that allow the user to visualize the use of space in different ways.

This could include maps, aerial photographs, satellite images, or other data.