Using map projections
This section does not undertake covering all the fundamental concepts of map projections because this subject is very well-documented in many recent books, and it is beyond the scope of this book. Instead, we will help you explore the most used map projections using the ArcMap application.
Classifying map projections
Map projection refers to the mathematical transformation of the earth's three-dimensional surface (ellipsoid or sphere) into a two-dimensional surface (a flat one) through an intermediate-developable surface, such as cylinder, cone, or plane.
Map projections can be classified according to the distortions caused by converting the earth's surface to the projection, as follows:
- Conformal projection: This distorts the areas and distances but preserves the local directions and feature's shapes. This is commonly used for topographic and cadastral maps, mainly at a large scale, and navigation or route planning maps.
- Equal Area projection: This preserves...
