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Map scale and coordinates
A map simplifies a place using symbols, a scale and a chosen projection. Scale connects map distances with real distances. Latitude measures north or south of the equator; longitude measures east or west of the prime meridian.
Earth is curved, so flat maps distort some properties. A straight line on a map is not always the shortest travel route. Check units when using a scale.
Worked example
At 1 cm = 5 km, a 3 cm map distance represents 15 km.
Try it yourself
Find a map legend and calculate one real distance from its scale.
Check your understanding
What real distance corresponds to 3 cm at 1 cm = 5 km?
Multiply three map centimeters by five kilometers per centimeter.
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