Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
which shows three maps that have identical dimensions and progressively “zoom in” on Ch-
icago. Specifically:
In Figure 5-2a, 1 inch represents 630 miles. As a result, this map shows a comparatively
large area that includes most of the Great Lakes, Upper Midwest, a handful of major cities,
and a portion of Canada.
In Figure 5-2b, 1 inch represents 190 miles. What is shown now is a much smaller area
that includes parts of Lake Michigan and Midwest states, a few medium-size towns, and a few
major regional highways.
In Figure 5-2c, 1 inch represents 64 miles. Now we have “zoomed in” to the extent that the
map shows Greater Chicago, southern-most Lake Michigan, more municipalities, local high-
ways, and several streets.
Notice that as the area shown on these maps decreases, the amount of detail increases. And if you
think about it, that makes a great deal of sense. When 1 inch represents 630 miles — a large area —
only very large surface features (such as the Great Lakes) can be shown. But when 1 inch represents
64 miles — a much smaller area — then comparatively small surface features (such as roads) can be
effectively shown.
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