The Atlas: Facts and Trivia
What is an atlas?
- An atlas is a collection of maps in book form. It may also include other information such as graphs, charts, and tables related to geography. Atlases generally include political maps, physical maps, and thematic maps.
Who created the first modern atlas in 1570?
- The first modern atlas was created by Abraham Ortelius in 1570, titled "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum Theatre of the World". Ortelius was a Flemish cartographer and geographer who is considered one of the pioneers of modern cartography.
Which of the following is NOT a type of map typically found in an atlas?
- A population map is not a type of map typically found in an atlas. Political maps show boundaries between countries and states, topographic maps show features such as mountains and rivers, and street maps show layouts of roads and buildings in specific areas.
Which of the following is NOT a common feature of an atlas?
- A glossary is not a common feature of an atlas, whereas an index, scale bar, and table of contents all are frequently found in atlases.
What is the largest atlas in the world?
- "The Earth Platinum" is the largest atlas in the world. It was created by Australian publisher Millennium House in 2012, and is over 330 pounds and over six feet tall when open. It contains a collection of 128 maps that cover the world.
Which of the following is a commonly used projection in mapmaking?
- Using symmetrical projection means that the right and left sides of the map are mirror images of each other. This type of projection is often used for world maps, as it allows for a balanced representation of the Earth's features.
What is the purpose of a gazetteer in an atlas?
- A gazetteer in an atlas provides information about the places on the maps. It's a list of names and descriptions of geographic locations such as cities, towns, mountains, and rivers, and may also include population statistics, historical information, etc.
What is the purpose of a legend in an atlas?
- The purpose of a legend in an atlas is to provide information about the map symbols. The legend explains what each symbol on the map represents, such as highways, rivers, and cities, and may also include information about the colors used on the map.
Which of the following is not a commonly used color scheme in maps?
- Complementary is not a commonly used color scheme in maps. Monochromatic color schemes use variations of a single color, analogous color schemes use colors that are adjacent on the color wheel, and polychromatic color schemes use multiple colors.
What is the purpose of a relief map in an atlas?
- Relief maps use shading, contour lines, and other techniques to show the shape and height of the land, including elevation. They are helpful for understanding the topography of an area and for planning activities such as hiking or mountaineering.
