Definition

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 means the projection preserves the relative size of all areas on the Earth's surface, though it typically distorts shapes, angles, and scale.

Usage

This term is used in cartography (map-making) and geography to describe a specific class of map projections. It is a technical term. - The primary goal of an equal-area projection is to represent regions with their correct proportional sizes. - It is often used for thematic maps where comparing the area of different regions (e.g., for population density, resource distribution) is more important than preserving exact shapes.

Examples

• "For a map showing global agricultural output, the cartographer chose an equal-area projection to ensure visual comparisons of country sizes were accurate."
• "The Gall-Peters projection is a well-known equal-area projection that sparked debate about how the world is represented."
• "While the Mercator projection distorts area, especially near the poles, an equal-area projection like the Mollweide does not."

Advanced Usage

• "To be equal-area": This adjective phrase describes the property of the projection itself.
  • The Albers conic projection is an equal-area map suitable for mid-latitude regions.
• The property of preserving area is formally called "equivalence". Therefore, an equal-area projection is also known as an equivalent projection.

Variants and Related Words

• Equivalent projection (n): A direct synonym for "equal-area projection."
• Authalic projection (n): Another, less common, synonym derived from Greek, meaning "of equal area."
• Area-preserving projection (n): A descriptive synonym.
• Projection (n): The general method of representing the Earth's curved surface on a flat map.

Synonyms

• Equivalent projection
• Authalic projection
• Area-preserving projection

Antonyms / Contrasting Terms

• Conformal projection: A map projection that preserves local angles and shapes but distorts area. The Mercator projection is a classic example.
• Compromise projection: A map projection that seeks a balance between distorting area, shape, distance, and direction, rather than preserving one property perfectly. The Robinson projection is an example.

Noun

1. a map projection in which quadrilaterals formed by meridians and parallels have an area on the map proportional to their area on the globe