World Map – What are the Different Types?

A map of the world is an exciting thing to look at; the wide expanse of our world not only gives us an overwhelming feeling but also makes us realize that we occupy such a tiny spot in the whole plan. There are different types of maps available which vary in the information given. But one thing is common for any World Map and that is a compass rose which provides information about the direction to the reader. Sometimes a scale is also provided especially on maps where distance has to be calculated between places.

There are different types of world maps to cater to the varied needs of the people. For example; a climate map is one in which information regarding climate and precipitation is provided by the cartographer. This type of world map is useful to a scientist or student who is interested in studying weather conditions, climate change etc. Physical maps are those which indicate the physical features of a particular area like mountains, hills, lakes, valleys and rivers. This is usually used by travelers and also those interested in studying the geology. Different colors are used to depict different physical features like blue for water, green for fertile land and brown for mountains.

A world map is a map of the surface of the Earth, which may be made using any of a number of different map projections. A map projection is any method of representing the surface of a sphere or other three-dimensional body on a plane.

Maps of the world are often either 'political' or 'physical'. The most important purpose of the political map is to show territorial borders; the purpose of the physical map is to show features of geography such as mountains, soil type or land use. Geological maps show not only the physical surface, but characteristics of the underlying rock, fault lines, and subsurface structures.

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Another common type of World Map is the road map which is quintessential for any traveler or tourist. This shows all the major roads like national highways and also airports, railway tracks and other important points on the globe. This type of map can also be used for planning a journey especially a road trip or cruise. Political maps are usually useful for students as this depicts all the countries along with state and national boundaries. The major cities and their capitals are also highlighted making this one highly informative for students and others.

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