This module delves into the concept of scale in cartography, emphasizing its significance and how it connects and distinguishes map features from reality. We cover: (i) how scale represents the ratio between distances on a map and corresponding distances in reality, and is crucial for understanding map accuracy and detail; (ii) how maps are selective reductions of reality, depicting chosen features at smaller sizes; (iii) how different map scales offer varying levels of detail, with larger scales showing more detail over smaller areas, and smaller scales showing less detail over larger areas; (iv) the various methods that we use to express scale on a map, like written statements, graphic scale bars, representative fractions, or graticules; (v) how we can use scale to make calculations to figure out the distance between two points on a map.

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This lecture is part of a larger course exploring the world of cartography. The full course can be found here: https://massolit.io/courses/cartograp...

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MASSOLIT works with university academics to produce short video lectures in the arts, sciences, humanities and social sciences. It is available to schools and colleges on an institutional license as well as via private subscription: https://www.massolit.io/?source=yt