Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 10.9
Additional elements of a fi nal fair copy map.
Element
Comments
Title
Include the name of the area mapped, and indicate any special theme (e.g. ore
mineralization)
Scale
As a ratio (e.g. 1:10,000) and in graphical form (e.g. a graduated bar)
10
N arrow
Indicate true north, and also show relative deviations of grid and magnetic north
Author, date
Include both the date of mapping and of map publication
Sources
Cite the sources of topographic base maps and any additional data used (e.g. previous
maps)
Explanation
A detailed legend showing colours, ornaments and letters for units, all symbols, lines,
etc., similar to that in Figure 10.6
Stratigraphic column
A vertical section, showing the stratigraphic order and relative thickness of strata
Cross-section(s)
Include one or more horizontal cross-sections, generally along the base, to illustrate the
structure of the area
information not bearing directly on the geology (e.g. soil
annotations - just use these for interpretation of the
geology); fossil and ore mineral locations may be retained if
appropriate.
Make sure that the symbols
and ornaments in the
explanation of a fair copy
geological map are all at the
same scale as on the main
map.
Alongside the actual map, several other elements are either
essential or highly desirable, generally as marginal additions.
Table 10.9 summarizes these components.
10.6.4 Digital maps and GIS
Many fi nal geological maps are drafted electronically, using
Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to plot the
geological data in a geospatial framework. However, in some
cases the actual mapping is also conducted using portable
computers (laptops or 'tablet' PCs), which allow data to be
directly entered into databases, and maps to be drafted on-
screen on an electronic base map. Professional surveys and
other companies increasingly use this technology, but it has
limitations as well as advantages (Section 2.9). Such methods
are beyond the scope of this introduction, as each system is
likely to require specifi c training in the software and mapping
styles adopted by the organization. However, the general
principles of mapping outlined in this chapter should still be
followed while mapping in this way; it is only the tools that
have changed.
