sinusoidal projection
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: * A specific type of map projection: The sinusoidal projection is an equal-area map projection. It represents all parallels of latitude and the equator as straight lines, while other meridians (lines of longitude) are shown as curves. It is primarily designed for mapping tropical latitudes.
Usage
- The sinusoidal projection is valued in cartography for preserving the accurate relative area of landmasses.
- When comparing continent sizes on a world map, a geographer might choose a sinusoidal projection to maintain areal fidelity.
- The distinctive feature of the sinusoidal projection is its curved meridians, which meet at the poles.
Advanced Usage
- "Sanson-Flamsteed projection": This is a common alternative name for the sinusoidal projection.
- The sinusoidal projection is often used in interrupted forms (where the map is split into lobes) to minimize distortion across the globe.
Variants and Related Words
- Sanson-Flamsteed projection (n): A synonym for the sinusoidal projection.
- Equal-area projection (n): The general class of map projections to which the sinusoidal projection belongs. These projections maintain accurate area proportions.
- Pseudocylindrical projection (n): A broader category of map projections where parallels are straight lines and meridians are curved. The sinusoidal projection is a member of this category.
Synonyms
- Sanson-Flamsteed projection
Related Concepts
- Map distortion: All map projections, including the sinusoidal, introduce some form of distortion (shape, distance, direction), though this one specifically preserves area.
- Cartography: The science and art of making maps, where choosing a projection like the sinusoidal is a fundamental decision.
Noun
- an equal-area map projection showing parallels and the equator as straight lines and other meridians as curved; used to map tropical latitudes