UNIT 1: Thinking Geographically Flashcards
(218 cards)
1
Q
What is a map scale?
A
A map scale represents the relationship between distances on a map and actual distances on the ground.
2
Q
What are large-scale maps?
A
Large-scale maps show a lot of detail and are used for city or street maps.
3
Q
What are small-scale maps?
A
Small-scale maps cover a larger area but show less detail, such as world or regional maps.
4
Q
What is a ratio scale?
A
A ratio scale is expressed as a ratio, such as 1:25,000, indicating the relationship between map distance and actual distance.
5
Q
What is a written scale?
A
A written scale explains the relationship in words, such as ‘1 inch equals 1 mile’.
6
Q
What is a graphic scale?
A
A graphic scale is a bar line marked on the map to show actual distance covered.
7
Q
What is a projection in cartography?
A
A projection is a method of representing the curved surface of the Earth on a flat map.
8
Q
What is the Mercator projection?
A
The Mercator projection preserves angles for navigation but distorts the size of land masses near the poles.
9
Q
What is the Peters projection?
A
The Peters projection shows countries in their true relative size but distorts shapes and distances.
10
Q
What is an equal-area projection?
A
An equal-area projection preserves the area of land masses but distorts shape and distance.
11
Q
What is the Robinson projection?
A
The Robinson projection is a compromise projection that reduces distortions while maintaining visual appeal.
12
Q
What is latitude?
A
Latitude measures the location of a place north or south of the equator, expressed in degrees.
13
Q
What is longitude?
A
Longitude measures the location of a place east or west of the Prime Meridian, expressed in degrees.
14
Q
What is a geographic grid?
A
The geographic grid is a system of intersecting lines that allows for the precise location of points on the Earth’s surface.
15
Q
What is a meridian?
A
A meridian is an imaginary line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, used to measure longitude.
16
Q
What is a parallel?
A
A parallel is a line of latitude that runs horizontally around the Earth, used to specify north-south position.
17
Q
What is a graphic scale?
A
A graphic scale visually represents the relationship between distance on a map and actual distance on the ground.
18
Q
What is the significance of map projections?
A
Map projections are essential for representing the Earth’s surface on flat maps, but they introduce distortions.
19
Q
What is geographic data?
A
Geographic data is any data associated with a specific location on the Earth’s surface, including coordinates, names of places, terrain features, land use patterns, and population statistics.
20
Q
What are examples of names of places?
A
Examples include cities (New York, London), towns (Millville, Maplewood), villages (Hogsmeade, Twin Peaks), regions (Southwest, Midwest), countries (United States, Canada), and natural features (Mount Everest, Grand Canyon).
21
Q
What are terrain features?
A
Terrain features are natural features of the Earth’s surface, such as mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, and oceans.
22
Q
What are examples of mountains?
A
Examples include the Rocky Mountains, the Himalayas, and Mount Everest.
23
Q
What are examples of valleys?
A
Examples include the Grand Canyon, the Shenandoah Valley, and the Rift Valley.
24
Q
What are examples of rivers?
A
Examples include the Amazon, the Nile, and the Mississippi.
25
What are examples of lakes?
Examples include Lake Superior, Lake Baikal, and Lake Victoria.
26
What are examples of oceans?
Examples include the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and the Indian Ocean.
27
What are land use patterns?
Land use patterns refer to how land is used or managed, including agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial, and natural uses.
28
What are examples of population statistics?
Examples include total population, population density, age structure, gender ratio, birth rate, death rate, and life expectancy.
29
What is the Global Positioning System (GPS)?
GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that determines precise location, velocity, and time anywhere on the Earth's surface.
30
What is Geographic Information System (GIS)?
GIS is a computer system that captures, stores, analyzes, and visualizes geographic data, allowing users to understand spatial relationships.
31
What is remote sensing?
Remote sensing is the use of satellite or aerial imagery to collect data about the Earth's surface, useful for monitoring changes over time.
32
What is the role of geographic data in disaster response?
Geographic data enhances disaster response by providing critical information for planning, coordination, and executing effective relief efforts.
33
What is environmental management?
Environmental management oversees human interaction with the environment, focusing on sustainability and careful use of natural resources.
34
What are spatial relationships and patterns?
Spatial relationships and patterns refer to the connections and arrangements of geographic phenomena, which are crucial for understanding location-based decisions and analysis in various fields.
35
What is a Geographic Information System (GIS)?
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful tool that captures, stores, analyzes, and visualizes geographic data, enabling users to understand spatial relationships and patterns.
36
What are geospatial technologies?
Geospatial technologies are tools and methods used to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data related to the Earth's surface, integrating GIS, remote sensing, and GPS.
37
What is the Global Positioning System (GPS)?
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information anywhere on Earth.
38
What are land use patterns?
Land use patterns refer to the ways land is utilized and organized for purposes like agriculture, residential areas, and commercial development, influenced by geographic, economic, and social factors.
39
What are names of places in geography?
Names of places, or toponyms, are labels assigned to specific geographical locations that hold cultural, historical, or geographical meanings.
40
What is navigation?
Navigation is the process of planning and controlling the movement of a vehicle or vessel from one location to another, essential for efficient travel.
41
What are population statistics?
Population statistics refer to quantitative data about a population's size, distribution, density, and demographics, crucial for understanding societal trends.
42
What is remote sensing?
Remote sensing is the technique of obtaining information about objects or areas from a distance, typically through satellites or aircraft.
43
What are terrain features?
Terrain features refer to the physical characteristics of the Earth's surface, including landforms like mountains, valleys, and plains.
44
What is transportation?
Transportation refers to the movement of people, goods, and services from one location to another using various modes.
45
What is urban planning?
Urban planning is the process of designing and managing land use in urban areas to create sustainable and functional communities.
46
How has remote sensing data contributed to understanding land use changes?
Remote sensing data has provided high-resolution imagery for detecting deforestation and urban sprawl.
47
What types of geographic data can be collected using GIS?
GIS can collect and organize terrain features, land use patterns, and population statistics.
48
What is spatial information?
Spatial information refers to data about physical locations and the spatial relationships between objects or features in an environment.
49
What are the types of spatial information?
Types of spatial information include geometric data, topographic data, imagery, attribute data, network data, and temporal data.
50
How is spatial information used?
Spatial information is used in mapping, GIS, surveying, location-based services, environmental analysis, and military operations.
51
What is spatial data?
Spatial data is data tied to a specific location on the Earth's surface, used in mapping and resource management.
52
What is census data?
Census data is collected by governments about the characteristics of a population, including demographics and housing.
53
What is attribute data?
Attribute data refers to qualitative information that describes features of geographic entities, critical for analyzing spatial patterns.
54
What are Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)?
Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are 3D representations of terrain created from elevation data, used in GIS.
55
What are digital tools in geography?
Digital tools are software and applications that facilitate the collection, analysis, and visualization of geographic data.
56
What is environmental analysis?
Environmental analysis assesses and understands environmental factors impacting an area or population.
57
What is geographic information?
Geographic information refers to data tied to specific locations, encompassing physical features and demographics.
58
What is Geographic Information?
Geographic Information refers to data tied to specific locations on the Earth's surface, including physical features, demographic details, and infrastructure.
59
What are Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?
GIS are tools that collect, manage, analyze, and visualize geographic data to understand spatial relationships and patterns.
60
What is Geometric Data?
Geometric data represents spatial relationships and physical attributes of geographic features, often displayed in coordinates, shapes, or patterns.
61
What are Geospatial Databases?
Geospatial databases are systems designed to store, manage, and manipulate geographic data linked to specific locations.
62
What is the Global Positioning System (GPS)?
GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information anywhere on Earth.
63
What are GPS Coordinates?
GPS coordinates are numerical values representing a specific location on the Earth's surface, expressed in latitude and longitude.
64
What is Imagery in geography?
Imagery refers to visual representations like photographs and satellite images that convey spatial information.
65
What are Industrial Areas?
Industrial areas are regions concentrated with manufacturing and production activities, characterized by factories and infrastructure.
66
What is Infrastructure?
Infrastructure refers to the fundamental facilities and systems that support the functioning of a society.
67
What is Land Use?
Land use refers to the management and modification of natural environments into built environments.
68
What are Location-based Services (LBS)?
LBS are applications that utilize geographical data to provide information or services based on a user's location.
69
What are Mapping Applications?
Mapping applications are digital tools that allow users to visualize and analyze geographic data through maps.
70
What are Maps?
Maps are visual representations of spatial relationships and geographic features.
71
What are Military Operations?
Military operations are coordinated actions taken by armed forces to achieve specific objectives during conflicts.
72
What is Network Data?
Network data illustrates connections or relationships among various entities.
73
What are Physical Features?
Physical features are the natural characteristics of the Earth's surface, including landforms and ecosystems.
74
What is Population Density?
Population density refers to the number of individuals living per unit area.
75
What are Residential Areas?
Residential areas are regions designed for people to live, including various housing types.
76
What is Satellite Imagery?
Satellite imagery refers to images of Earth taken by satellites orbiting the planet.
77
What is Spatial Data?
Spatial data refers to information about the physical location and shape of objects.
78
What is Spatial Information?
Spatial information relates to the physical location and characteristics of objects in space.
79
What are Street Maps?
Street maps are detailed representations of urban areas, highlighting streets and landmarks.
80
What is Surveying?
Surveying is the process of measuring and mapping land to determine the location of features.
81
What is Temporal Data?
Temporal data captures changes and trends over a specified period.
82
What is Topographic Data?
Topographic data represents the Earth's surface features, including elevation and terrain shapes.
83
What is Topography?
Topography refers to the arrangement of physical features of an area.
84
What is Vegetation?
Vegetation refers to the plant life in a specific area, influencing ecosystems and human activities.
85
What is a Zoning Map?
A zoning map outlines different zones within an area, showing designated land uses.
86
What is Absolute Location?
Absolute location refers to the specific geographical position of a place, expressed in latitude and longitude.
87
What is Relative Location?
Relative location refers to the position of a place in relation to other places.
88
What is Place in geography?
Place refers to a location that has meaning and unique characteristics.
89
What is Time and Distance Decay?
Time and distance decay refers to the decreasing influence of a place as time since an event increases.
90
What is Diffusion?
Diffusion is the process by which a concept or innovation spreads from one place to another.
91
What is Relocation Diffusion?
Relocation diffusion spreads an idea through the movement of people from one place to another.
92
What is Expansion Diffusion?
Expansion diffusion spreads a characteristic from one place to another, with each place adding its unique touch.
93
What is expansion diffusion?
Expansion diffusion refers to the process by which an idea, innovation, or cultural practice spreads outward from its origin while simultaneously gaining influence in the areas it reaches.
94
What is hierarchical diffusion?
Hierarchical diffusion is a type of cultural diffusion where ideas, innovations, or trends spread from larger or more influential places to smaller or less influential ones.
95
What is contagious diffusion?
Contagious diffusion is a process where a cultural trait or innovation spreads rapidly and widely through a population, typically through direct contact and interaction.
96
What is stimulus diffusion?
Stimulus diffusion is a form of cultural diffusion that occurs when a specific trait or idea is adopted from one culture by another, but the original trait is modified or transformed in the process.
97
What is relocation diffusion?
Relocation diffusion refers to the spread of cultural traits, ideas, or innovations through the physical movement of individuals or groups from one location to another.
98
What is absolute location?
Absolute location refers to the precise point where a place is located on the Earth's surface, usually defined by a set of coordinates (latitude and longitude).
99
What is relative location?
Relative location refers to the position of a place or entity based on its location with respect to other locations.
100
What are the three pillars of sustainability?
The three pillars of sustainability are environmental sustainability, economic sustainability, and social sustainability.
101
What is environmental determinism?
Environmental determinism is the idea that the natural environment shapes the development of societies.
102
What are the four abiotic systems of Earth?
The four abiotic systems are the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
103
What is the hydrosphere?
The hydrosphere is the Earth's water system, which includes all the water on the planet, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and groundwater.
104
What is the lithosphere?
The lithosphere is the solid outer layer of the Earth, which includes the crust and the upper mantle.
105
What is the atmosphere?
The atmosphere is the layer of gases that surrounds the Earth, composed mainly of nitrogen and oxygen.
106
What is the geosphere?
The geosphere is the Earth's solid inner layer, which includes the mantle and the core.
107
What is quarrying?
Quarrying is the process of extracting minerals, metals, and other resources from the Earth's crust.
108
What is the role of the lithosphere in infrastructure?
The lithosphere provides materials such as concrete and asphalt for building roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.
109
How do humans use the Earth's surface for construction?
Humans use the Earth's surface as a foundation for buildings, houses, and other structures.
110
What agricultural practices modify land and soil?
Growing crops and raising animals involve modifying the land and soil to create agricultural fields and pastures.
111
What activities change the shape of the land?
Deforestation, clear-cutting, and urbanization are activities that change the shape of the land.
112
How is geothermal energy extracted?
Geothermal energy is extracted through activities such as drilling geothermal wells.
113
What is the importance of sustainable land use practices?
Sustainable land use practices protect and conserve the Earth's natural resources.
114
What does the atmosphere provide?
The atmosphere provides oxygen and protects us against the Sun’s rays.
115
How do fossil fuels impact the atmosphere?
Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
116
How do trees help mitigate climate change?
Planting trees and vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
117
What technologies monitor atmospheric conditions?
Technologies such as weather forecasting and air quality monitoring are used to measure atmospheric conditions.
118
What are some technologies developed to protect from the elements?
Air conditioning and heating systems are technologies developed to protect ourselves from the elements.
119
How does the atmosphere facilitate transportation?
The atmosphere is used as a means of transportation through activities such as flying in airplanes.
120
How is the atmosphere used for communication?
The atmosphere is used for communication through broadcasting radio and television signals.
121
What is a negative use of the atmosphere?
The atmosphere is used as a disposal mechanism for waste products, such as releasing pollutants into the air.
122
What is the biosphere?
The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, where living organisms interact with each other and their environments.
123
What does domestication of plants and animals involve?
Domestication of plants and animals is for food, clothing, and other purposes.
124
What is selective breeding?
Selective breeding modifies plant and animal genetics to create crops and animals with desired traits.
125
How are chemicals used in agriculture?
Chemicals are used to control pests, weeds, and diseases in agriculture and forestry.
126
What technologies monitor biodiversity?
Technologies developed to monitor biodiversity include conservation programs and protected areas.
127
How is biotechnology used in environmental cleanup?
Biotechnology and bioremediation are used to clean up environmental pollution and restore damaged ecosystems.
128
What are some sources of medicine from living organisms?
Plants used in traditional medicine and microorganisms used in pharmaceuticals are sources of medicine.
129
How are living organisms used industrially?
Microorganisms are used in the production of biofuels and enzymes.
130
What is an abiotic system?
An abiotic system refers to the non-living components of an ecosystem, including water, air, soil, and minerals.
131
What role does the atmosphere play in climate?
The atmosphere regulates temperature and protects the planet from harmful solar radiation.
132
What is biomass energy?
Biomass energy is renewable energy derived from organic materials like plant and animal waste.
133
What is economic sustainability?
Economic sustainability refers to an economy's capacity to support production indefinitely without harming social and environmental aspects.
134
What is environmental determinism?
Environmental determinism is the theory that human behaviors and cultures are shaped by the physical environment.
135
What is environmental sustainability?
Environmental sustainability is the responsible interaction with the planet to maintain natural resources for future generations.
136
What are fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are natural resources formed from decomposed remains of ancient plants and animals, used for energy production.
137
What is the geosphere?
The geosphere refers to the solid parts of the Earth, including the crust, mantle, and core.
138
What is geothermal energy?
Geothermal energy is the heat from the Earth's core that can be harnessed for electricity generation and heating.
139
What is hydroelectric energy?
Hydroelectric energy is generated by harnessing the energy of flowing water to produce electricity.
140
What does the hydrosphere include?
The hydrosphere includes all water found on, under, and over the Earth's surface.
141
What is the lithosphere?
The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle.
142
What are minerals?
Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solid substances with a definite chemical composition.
143
What is a nonrenewable resource?
A nonrenewable resource is a natural resource that cannot be replenished within a human timescale once depleted.
144
What is nuclear energy?
Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear reactions, producing large amounts of electricity with minimal emissions.
145
What is a renewable resource?
A renewable resource is a natural resource that can be replenished naturally over time.
146
What is social sustainability?
Social sustainability refers to the ability of a society to maintain and improve the well-being of its members over time.
147
What is solar energy?
Solar energy is the radiant light and heat from the sun that can be harnessed using various technologies.
148
What does sustainability mean?
Sustainability refers to meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
149
What are the types of resources on Earth?
Types of resources on Earth include renewable, non-renewable, and flow resources.
150
What is wind energy?
Wind energy is generated by converting the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical power or electricity.
151
What are scales of analysis?
Scales of analysis refer to the level or perspective at which a problem or issue is studied.
152
What is the local scale of analysis?
The local scale of analysis focuses on issues affecting a specific community or neighborhood.
153
What is the national scale of analysis?
The national scale of analysis describes issues affecting an entire country or a substantial portion of it.
154
What is the regional scale of analysis?
The regional scale of analysis describes issues affecting a specific region larger than a single community but smaller than a nation.
155
What is the global scale of analysis?
The global scale of analysis includes issues that have a global or regional impact.
156
What is map scale?
Map scale refers to the relationship between the size of an object on a map and its actual size on the ground.
157
What is cartographic scale?
Cartographic scale refers to the relationship between the size of features on a map and their actual size in the real world.
158
What is the global scale of analysis?
The global scale of analysis refers to the level of the entire planet, considering issues and problems that have a global or regional impact.
159
What are some examples of issues observed at the global scale?
Examples include climate change, loss of biodiversity, global economic inequality, global governance, and access to healthcare in developing countries.
160
Who is often involved in addressing problems on a global scale?
International organizations, national governments, corporations, nonprofits, and other stakeholders are frequently involved.
161
What do scales of analysis reveal?
Scales of analysis reveal different levels at which problems can be studied, providing various perspectives and levels of detail.
162
How can studying a problem at different scales be beneficial?
Using multiple scales can help identify root causes and effective solutions, as local issues may stem from national or global policies.
163
Does a map of bitcoin servers in Italy provide information about bitcoin servers in Australia?
No, a map of bitcoin servers in Italy does not provide information about bitcoin servers in Australia.
164
Can a map of poverty in a city reveal trends of poverty in the state?
It is possible, but a comprehensive analysis requires data from across the state, not just one city.
165
What does access to education refer to?
Access to education refers to the ability of individuals to obtain and benefit from educational opportunities, influenced by various societal factors.
166
What is access to healthcare?
Access to healthcare refers to the ability to obtain needed medical services, influenced by social, economic, and geographic factors.
167
What are bar scales?
Bar scales are graphic representations on maps that indicate the relationship between map distance and actual ground distance.
168
What is biodiversity loss?
Biodiversity loss refers to the decline in the variety of life forms on Earth, impacting ecosystems and ecological health.
169
What is cartographic scale?
Cartographic scale refers to the relationship between distance on a map and the corresponding distance on the ground.
170
What is climate change?
Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the Earth's climate, primarily due to human activities.
171
What is community engagement?
Community engagement is the collaboration between individuals and organizations to address issues and promote social change.
172
What does cultural identity refer to?
Cultural identity refers to the sense of belonging to a particular culture, shaped by shared values and traditions.
173
What are economic factors?
Economic factors are financial elements that influence decisions and conditions in society.
174
What is economic growth?
Economic growth refers to the increase in the production of goods and services in an economy over time.
175
What is global governance?
Global governance refers to the management of international affairs across countries to address global issues.
176
What is global inequality?
Global inequality refers to the unequal distribution of wealth and resources among individuals and countries worldwide.
177
What does global scale mean?
Global scale refers to analyzing phenomena that transcend national boundaries, considering the world as a whole.
178
What is industrial development?
Industrial development is the enhancement of a nation or region's industrial capacity and infrastructure.
179
What are infrastructure needs?
Infrastructure needs refer to the essential structures required for the operation of a society or economy.
180
What are international organizations?
International organizations are entities created by multiple countries to promote cooperation on global issues.
181
What is job creation?
Job creation refers to generating new employment opportunities within an economy.
182
What is local government?
Local government refers to the administrative systems that govern specific municipalities or regions.
183
What does local scale refer to?
Local scale refers to the level of analysis focusing on specific, small areas like communities or neighborhoods.
184
What is map scale?
Map scale refers to the relationship between distance on a map and the corresponding distance on the ground.
185
What is national government?
National government is the centralized authority that governs a country and establishes laws and policies.
186
What does national scale mean?
National scale refers to analyzing data at the level of an entire nation.
187
What are non-profit organizations?
Non-profit organizations operate without the goal of making a profit, focusing on advancing social causes.
188
What is the physical environment?
The physical environment encompasses natural features of the Earth, influencing human activity.
189
What does regional scale refer to?
Regional scale focuses on specific areas within a broader context, examining spatial relationships.
190
What are representative fraction scales?
Representative fraction scales express the relationship between distance on a map and actual ground distance using a ratio.
191
What is resource extraction?
Resource extraction is the process of obtaining raw materials from the earth for economic activities.
192
What are scales of analysis?
Scales of analysis refer to different levels at which geographic data can be examined.
193
What are social factors?
Social factors are elements that shape human interactions and societal structures.
194
What are verbal scales?
Verbal scales are descriptive statements that express the relationship between map distance and actual ground distance.
195
What is regional analysis?
Regional analysis is the study of a specific region to understand its characteristics and patterns.
196
What is the purpose of regional analysis?
Regional analysis is used for planning, policy making, and understanding unique characteristics of a region.
197
What are toponyms?
Toponyms are place names derived from various sources, reflecting physical or historical characteristics.
198
What is Mount Everest named after?
Sir George Everest, the British Surveyor General of India.
199
What does Rio de Janeiro mean in Portuguese?
"River of January," named by Portuguese explorers who discovered the bay on New Year's Day in 1502.
200
What do the Japanese words 'tō' and 'kyō' mean in relation to Tokyo?
'tō' means 'east' and 'kyō' means 'capital.'
201
What was Istanbul formerly known as?
Byzantium and Constantinople.
202
What does the name Afghanistan derive from?
The Sanskrit word 'avagāna,' meaning 'land of the Afghans.'
203
What does the term 'site' refer to in human geography?
The specific location of a settlement or other human activity, influenced by physical characteristics like topography and climate.
204
What can influence the development of a site?
Physical characteristics such as climate, water resources, and cultural, social, and economic factors.
205
What does the term 'situation' refer to in human geography?
The location of a place in relation to its surroundings, including physical and cultural factors.
206
How can the situation of a place influence its function?
For example, a city on a major river may become an important transportation hub.
207
What is a formal region?
A geographical area defined by specific characteristics that are uniform across the region.
208
What are some examples of formal regions?
Political regions, statistical regions, climatic regions, vegetation regions, and cultural regions.
209
What is a functional region?
A geographical area defined by the flow of goods, services, information, or other resources between places.
210
What are examples of functional regions?
Economic regions, transportation regions, and communication regions.
211
What is a vernacular region?
A geographical area defined by the common perceptions and cultural identity of the people living within it.
212
What are some examples of vernacular regions?
The American South, the Rust Belt, and the Bible Belt.
213
What is a toponym?
A name given to a place on Earth.
214
What is the definition of 'site' in human geography?
The physical character of a place, including climate and water sources.
215
What does 'situation' refer to?
The location of a place relative to other places.
216
What is a formal region characterized by?
An area where everyone shares one unique characteristic.
217
What defines a functional region?
An area organized around a hub.
218
What is a vernacular region based on?
A sense of place and cultural identity.
