Question

Describe how a map with a scale of \(1: 50,000\) is different from a map with a scale of \(1: 24,000\).

Short answer

A map with a \(1:24,000\) scale is more detailed and zoomed in than a map with a \(1:50,000\) scale.

Step-by-step solution

Define Map Scale

Map scale indicates the relationship between a distance on the map and the actual distance on the ground. A scale of \(1:50,000\) means that 1 unit on the map is equal to 50,000 units on the ground. Similarly, a scale of \(1:24,000\) implies that 1 unit on the map is equal to 24,000 units on the ground.

Compare Ratio Values

The ratio in the map scale expresses how zoomed in the map is. A scale of \(1:24,000\) means the map is more zoomed in than a map with a scale of \(1:50,000\), because the map scale of \(1:24,000\) represents smaller ground units per map unit. Thus, objects on the map appear larger.

Infer Map Detail

With a smaller ratio (1:24,000), the map can show more detail because it's more zoomed in. Therefore, a \(1:24,000\) map can provide more precise details about the land features compared to a \(1:50,000\) scale map.

Practical Implication

A \(1:24,000\) scale map is more suitable for activities requiring detailed terrain analysis, such as hiking or land surveying. Conversely, a \(1:50,000\) scale map is better for getting a general overview of a larger area, such as for regional planning.

Key concepts

Cartography

Cartography is the art and science of map-making. Understanding the concept of map scale is a crucial aspect of cartography. Map scale defines the relationship between distances on the map and distances on the Earth's surface.
For example, a map scale of \(1:50,000\) means one unit on the map represents 50,000 units on the ground. Similarly, a map scale of \(1:24,000\) indicates that one map unit equals 24,000 units in reality. This measurement helps cartographers determine how much detail they can include on a map and influences the map's intended use.
When creating maps, cartographers select scales based on the map's purpose. A large-scale map (such as \(1:24,000\)) is useful for detailed local information, while a smaller scale map exemplified by \(1:50,000\) covers larger areas with less detail. The scale determines the scope and level of detail captured, providing either a broad overview or a closer look at specific areas.

Map Detail

Map detail refers to the amount of information and precision displayed on a map. The scale of a map is an essential factor in determining its level of detail.
With a map scale of \(1:24,000\), smaller areas are shown, which allows mapmakers to include more precise details such as street names, contour lines, or individual trees. This scale is particularly suited for detailed survey work, hiking, and urban planning where accuracy on a smaller area is necessary.
Conversely, a map with a scale of \(1:50,000\) shows less detail over a larger area. Such a map might highlight major roads, regional topography, or significant landmarks, making it suitable for planning routes over broader areas without focusing on minute details of the terrain. The choice of scale and detail impacts how users interact with and interpret the information presented.

Terrain Analysis

Terrain analysis involves studying the physical characteristics of the land, often for various planning and environmental purposes. A map's scale plays an important role in how well it can represent terrain features.
For instance, a map scale of \(1:24,000\) is excellent for terrain analysis where precision is critical, like in assessing flood zones, planning construction, or conducting environmental studies. It enables detailed examination of land features such as slopes, valleys, and elevation changes.
In contrast, a \(1:50,000\) scale may be beneficial for a broader terrain overview, useful in scenarios such as national park management or regional agricultural assessment. This wide-scale approach summarizes larger landscape features without focusing on smaller, more intricate details. Understanding the suitability of a map scale for terrain analysis ensures that the data yielded is appropriate for the intended use.