equal-area map projection
An equal-area map projection ensures that every region on the map is shown in its true relative size.
Noun: A map projection in which quadrilaterals formed by meridians and parallels have an area on the map proportional to their area on the globe. This property, known as "equivalence," means that regions of equal area on the Earth are represented as regions of equal area on the map, preserving the relative size of landmasses and oceans.
This term is used in cartography, geography, and data visualization to describe a specific class of map projections. * An equal-area map projection is essential for accurately representing the size of countries for statistical comparisons. * When analyzing global population density, geographers often use an equal-area map projection to ensure that the area of each region on the map corresponds correctly to its actual land area.
- "For this thematic map showing global forest cover, the cartographer chose an equal-area map projection to prevent large countries like Russia from being visually overrepresented."
- "The Gall-Peters projection is a well-known, though controversial, equal-area map projection."
- "While the Mercator projection distorts area, especially near the poles, an equal-area map projection like the Mollweide projection maintains correct areal relationships."
- Trade-offs: It is important to note that while an equal-area map projection preserves the property of area, it necessarily distorts other properties, such as shape, angle, or scale. No flat map can perfectly represent the spherical Earth without some form of distortion.
- Synonyms in Technical Context: In technical literature, this type of projection is also called an equivalent projection or an authalic projection.
- Equal-area (adjective): Describes the property itself. (e.g., "an equal-area projection").
- Equivalence (noun): The cartographic property of preserving area.
- Authalic projection (noun): A technical synonym for an equal-area map projection.
- Equivalent projection
- Authalic projection
- Conformal map projection (a projection that preserves local angles and shapes, but distorts area)
An equal-area map projection ensures that every region on the map is shown in its true relative size.
- a map projection in which quadrilaterals formed by meridians and parallels have an area on the map proportional to their area on the globe