Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
8. What is the State-Plane Coordinate System?
9. How are locational and coordinate systems used for public adminis-
tration?
10. Why are 3-D coordinate systems still uncommon?
Answers
1. What are common applications for spherical coordinate systems?
Spherical coordinate systems are commonly used for satellite tracking and
global models.
2. What is the main practical importance of coordinate systems?
Coordinate systems provide for the common recording of positional loca-
tions against which distortions can be measured.
3. What is the main difference between coordinate and locational sys-
tems?
Coordinate systems are mathematically defined based on a model of the
earth's surface and shape; location systems can be mathematically defined,
but are usually created without relating them to a model of the earth's sur-
face and shape.
4. What is the transformation from
x
,
y
to
x
,
y
called when all scale
factors are the same?
A constant scale transformation is called a linear transformation.
5. What is the difference between rectangular and polar coordinates?
Rectangular coordinates are orthogonal, that is, the
x
,
y
origin is defined by
a right angle.
6. For what purpose was Roman centuration devised?
Colonizing and developing conquered areas.
7. What is the similarity between metes-and-bounds and the PLS in the
United States?
In the areas they respectively dominate, they are legally accepted means of
recording land ownership.
8. What is the State-Plane Coordinate system?
The State-Plane coordinate System was established during the 1930s in the
United States to specify coordinate systems for each area. Many states have
legally adopted the SPCS.
9. How are locational and coordinate systems used for public adminis-
tration?
Locational and coordinate systems are used for recording locations, help-
ing government/private coordination, and providing a structure for future
activities.
10. Why are 3-D coordinate systems still uncommon?
The complex mathematics and lack of a common reference standard along
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