Soil Map

source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soil_map

A soil map shows the properties of multiple depths of soil such as pH, type, composition, texture, etc. These maps are great for determining soil quality of an area of viability of a particular land use such as agriculture or even engineering (like a building). The image above shoes a variety of parameters of a particular area of soil including the depth recorded and soil profile.

Google Earth

source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Earth

Google Earth is basically the greatest map of all time. Not only is it extremely accurate in its projection (because it is shaped like a globe and as you zoom in it is able to adapt new projections) but it also has every kind of map embedded in it or available to download as a add-on. For instance, the map displayed above is a plainmetric map layered with a satellite image, with an application that lets you compare it to a historical black & white aerial map with the capacity to zoom into street view AND see images in 3D. I've seen maps that show the floods of a tsunami. You can travel along the mid-Atlantic ridge or the Rockie mountain ranges.

Bathymetric Map

source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bathymetry

Bathymetric maps are similar in concept to hypsometric maps but instead are focused on the depths of underwater "terrain". Early measurements were taken using depth sounding (literally dropping a rope down to the ocean floor and taking a measurement of its depth). Now sonar is used (or LIDAR/LIDAR) to produce a digital read-out of the ocean floor depths.

Mental Map

source: http://www.fedstats.gov/kids/mapstats/concepts_mentalmaps.html

A Mental Map is simply an individual's mental perception of the world they may "know". For instance, my mental map of my drive to work really only consists of a few landmarks including the FSU campus, a few street signs, and the hobos on the corner of Monroe and Tennessee (bad joke). Mental maps come in all shapes, sizes, and creative tastes and are generally completely inaccurate...

Star Plot

source: http://start1.jpl.nasa.gov/caseStudies/autoTool.cfm

First used by Georg von Mayr in 1877, a star plot is a method of displaying multiple variables and characteristics of different statistical observations simultaneously. For a given observation, the length of each ray is made proportional to the size of that variable. This is an effective way of comparing many different observations on a single plain.

Continously Variable Circle Map

source: http://propagandica.wordpress.com/?s=circlesizeisproportionaltotheamounteachcountysleadingcandidateisahead.jpg

A continuously variable circle map demonstrates data points using circles with varying sizes which relate to the proportion of data that is measure at that specific location. For instance, in the example map above (given the appropriate map key), one may infer that where there are relatively large blue circles there were proportionally more Obama voters in those specific precincts.

Accumulative Line Graph

source: http://ingrimayne.com/econ/AllocatingRationing/MeasuringIncomeDist.html

Developed by economist Max Lorenz in 1905, the Lorenz Curve demonstrates the income distribution of a specific population. Economists generally use the Lorenz Curve to measure income inequality. The area between the line of perfect equality and the observed Lorenz Curve is known as the Gini coefficient; the higher the Gini coefficient, the higher the incidence of income inequality.

Wind Rose

source: http://www.climate.washington.edu/climate.html

A wind rose depicts the wind direction, speed, and frequency at a particular location. Wind direction is demonstrated by which direction each "spoke" points in; speed is associated with defined colors; frequency is demonstrated by the length of the spokes (long = frequent). The "resultant vector" is basically the average.

LIDAR

source: http://rst.gsfc.nasa.gov/Sect8/Sect8_8.html

LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) is similar in concept to radar technology but instead of using radio waves to determine range to an object, LIDAR uses laser pulses (

measuring the time delay between the transmission of the laser pulse

and the detection of the reflected signal). Because LIDAR uses shorter wavelength pulses than radar, it is able to detect very detailed objects such as aerosol particles in the atmosphere. LIDAR was used to determine the varying heights and angles of the cityscape shown in the map above!

Isobars

source: http://www.windfinder.com/weather/

In meteorology isobars are contour lines that connect locations of equal average atmospheric pressure for a particular period of time. In the example map above, isobars are used to depict high pressures that are moving through Northwest Europe on Monday, April 25, 2011.

Mercator

source: http://www.mapsanddirections.us/projections.htm

In 1569, Flemish cartographer/geographer Gerardus Mercator used a cylindrical map projection to represent the world. This projection preserves the angles and shapes of small objects but distorts the size and shape of large objects. All in all, it is a useful map for the purposes of nautical exploration.

Digital Ortho Quarter Quadrangl (DOQQ)

source: http://www.topographic.com/2011_version/datasamples.htm

Digital Ortho Quarter Quadrangl (DOQQ) maps are aerial photographs that have been digitally orthorectified (corrected for geometric, topographic, and camera distortions) so that the scale is uniformly accurate with the Earth's surface. Such images are often used for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in which they are layered with other images to create highly informative and accurate representations of geographic locations.

Scatter Plot

source: http://onlinestatbook.com/chapter4/pearson.html

A scatter plot displays data on a Cartesian graph as dots (each with a specific x and y value). Depending on how the dot distribution pans out, there may be a pattern that the reader can discern either linearly, exponentially, etc. In the graph above, the age of the partners in a marriage are represented. Generally speaking, the age of the husband is approximately the same as the wife.

Isotach

source: http://www.underthemeso.com/blog/

Isotach lines are contour lines that connect constant speeds of wind. The closeness between lines determine the degree of wind shear (the closer, the more intense). Isotachs do not indicate wind direction but generally are parallel to the steamlines of a jet stream. In the map above, extra arrows are used to indicate wind direction while colors are used to reinforce intensity.

Hypsometric

source: http://www.earthexplorer.com/2009-03/subsurface_geology_challenges_goiania_metro.asp

Hypsometric maps use color to depict relief/elevations. The map above has a gradient of color ranging from dark blue (below sea level) to white (highest point above sea level). As you can see, the combination of colors are very effective in demonstrating relief on a 2D image.

Choropleth

source: http://my.ilstu.edu/~jrcarter/Geo204/Choro/Tom/



Created in 1826 by Baron Pierre Charles Dupin, choropleth maps are thematic and made to show a specific data set (typically population) using colors overlaid on-top-of geographical locations. In the example above, Hispanic population density is depicted as shades of green (dark = dense) in the different counties throughout the state.

Cartogram

source: http://agro.biodiver.se/2007/03/singer-cartogram/

Cartogram maps demonstrate variable information by heavily distorting distance, shape, and area. For example, the map above is showing the degree of agricultural diversity between the nations of the world. India is relatively large which represents a high degree of agricultural diversity whereas the United States is relatively smaller - representing a low degree of agricultural diversity. This makes sense because in the US, few crops are grown to maximize economies of scale.

Bilateral Graph

source: http://www.pollster.com/polls/us/08-us-pres-ge-mvo.php?nr=1

Bilateral graphs show two trends, laterally, on a graph that are usually opposing in direction so that over-time, fluctuations in one directly correlate with an opposite but equal fulctuation in the other. For example, the graph above shows the Presidential race between Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama. Polling data was collected from 2007 thru the election and as you can see, where McCain began to surge is correlated with where Obama dipped and vis-versa.

Infrared

source: http://www.geoconnexion.com/geouk_news_article/Colour-Infrared-Map-Goes-Online-at-Bluesky/5415

Infrared maps are aerial/satelite images that are taken using infrared electromagnetic radiation (wavelength that is longer than visible light). These images are great for monitoring crops or vegetation as the green leaves will standout compared to other colors seen on a landscape. The photo above was used to asses the health of the vegetation across England and Wales. These images are often used with GIS projects!

Similarity Matrix

source: http://tomcat.esat.kuleuven.be/txtgate/tutorial.jsp

A similarity matrix compares the similarity between two different objects, observations, points of data, etc. They often use colors to define the degree of similarity making it easy for the reader to quickly determine similarities or differences. In the example above, human genes are compared with red boxes represent high similarity.

Topographic

source: http://www.mapsofindia.com/maps/india/topographic-map.htm

Topographic maps use color, shading, and/or contour lines to detail terrain of a geographic location. These maps can demonstrate both natural and man-made features. The map above uses color and contour lines together to show the heights of Nablus (an area in the West Bank).

Stem-and-Leaf Plot

source: http://mainland.cctt.org/mathsummer/JosephBond/StemAndPlots/stem-and-leaf_std.htm

Stem-and-leaf plots are used in analyzing the distribution of quantitative data in graphical form. Generally, these graphs feature two columns; one containing the "stems" the other containing the "leaves". This tool is useful in allowing the reader to quickly visualize statistical values in an orderly, easy-to-read fashion.

Thematic

source: http://www.lib.wsc.ma.edu/censusaff.htm

Thematic maps are used to show the spatial layout and patterns of a chosen theme over a given area. The subject displayed may be qualitative or quantitative. They are used often for demonstrating population densities and used in the Census to graphically display gathered information. The theme of the map above is Median Age 2000 for states in the Southeast.

Boxplot

source: http://donshare.blogspot.com/

Boxplots take numerical datasets and summarize them into five values - three of which are called "quartiles". The first (Q1) represents the dataset's 25th percentile, the second (Q2) is the median representing the 50th percentile, the third (Q3) is the upper quartiles representing the 75th percentile. The other two summarized values are the dataset's observed minimum and maximum numbers. Boxplots are effective in visualizing research data because the reader is able to quickly determine where the "bulk" of the data rests while have an idea of the outliers as well.

Planimetric

source: http://www.nps.gov/history/history/online_books/fova/clr/clr2-5c.htm

Planimetric maps, also known as line maps, display images from an aerial view in purely 2D (no elevation). These maps are useful in showing roadways but can also be used to show natural features like forest lines or rivers. The map above is of Vancouver's downtown district.

Histogram

source: http://www.dreamcalc.com/dchelp/userguide_graphing_sd_charts.htm

Histograms depict the frequencies of statistical values in graphical form. On the horizontal axis, the statistical data is displayed in consecutive, even intervals. On the vertical axis values are displayed to show the frequency of observation of the horizontal data points. Rectangular bars corresponding with their respective categories demonstrate the frequency with their height. The total area of the bars combined is equal to the total data present in the dataset.

Cadastral

source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadastre

Cadastral maps use GPS to link the precise location to detailed ownership information. Detailed information can include current and historic land use/ownership giving the reader a contextual perspective of the parcel. The above map is of the village of Pielnia, Austria (1852).

Public Land Survey System

source: http://geology.isu.edu/geostac/Field_Exercise/topomaps/plss.htm

PLSS maps (Public Land Survey System) are used to define specific parcels of land (for ownership purposes). Land is divided into 6-square mile townships from a North-South line called the "Principle Meridian". These townships are then further divided into 1-square mile blocks and further divided into 1/4-mile squares. Numbers and letters (NE, NW, SE, SW) differentiate squares.

Triangle Plot

source: http://www.ex-parrot.com/~chris/wwwitter/20050407-it_doesnt_matter_how_you_vote_either_way_your_planet_is_doomed.html

Triangular plots display three variables on each side of an equilateral triangle. In the example above, the three variables make up the three parties participating in a UK election. As you move from 0 to [10]0 in ascending order, the percentage of votes for that particular party increases.

Climograph

source: http://www.uwsp.edu/geo/faculty/lemke/geog101/lectures/09_global_climate_patterns.html

A climograph combines information about a locales' monthly precipitation and temperature. The rectangular bars depict precipitation and correspond with the values on the left vertical axis while the line graph shows temperatures and corresponds with the right vertical axis. As you can see above, Australia experiences a dip in temperature May, June, and July (their winter).

Propaganda Maps

source: http://mappery.com/Soviet-Union-Land-Use-Map

Propaganda maps are used to elicit a particular response from the user that is favorable for the entity producing the map based on a psychological exploitation. For instance, this map portrays USSR as a large, looming influence over Western Europe. Readers of this map are expected to react fearfully toward the spread of the Communist ideal. Consider propaganda maps as a component of psychological warfare.

Doppler Radar

source: http://www.stuffintheair.com/Doppler-radar-weather.html

Doppler radar maps are produced using "the Doppler effect" (if you've ever heard an ambulance drive by then you are familiar of the Doppler effect). Used primarily in meteorology, the Doppler radar bounces off of rain droplets and informs the computer of where weather systems are over a geographic location.

Isopleth

source: http://www.stonelions.com/Jacksonville.htm

Isopleth maps are the generalized contour line maps used to display variables continuously over a geographic area. For instance, population density can be showed using contour lines which gives the reader an idea of a density epicenter. Above is an air dispersion model of toxic chemical emissions from waste incinerators in Jacksonville, Fl. A lot of interesting information can be ascertained from this type of map for instance where the highest concentrations of toxic chemicals are and where they traveled (based on wind).

Isopach

source: http://www.fas.org/irp/imint/docs/rst/Sect19/Sect19_6.html

Isopach maps are used in displaying geologic data. Contour lines are used to differentiate strata thickness (strata along the same continuous line have the same thickness). The picture above is a isopach graph of the moon that was created after seismograph studies began during the Apollo 15 flight. These studies determined a 3km layer of ejecta on the moon's surface.

Isohyetal

source: http://www.did.sarawak.gov.my/hydroen/resource/isohyet.htm

Isohyetal maps are a subset of contour maps. Isohyet stems from a word meaning "rain" and therefore is a series of contour lines joining points of equal precipitation and air moisture on a map The example map above displays the precipitation of Sarawak (1998) in millimeters.

Population Profile

source: http://www.populationaction.org/Publications/Reports/The_Shape_of_Things_to_Come/Chapter_Six_Subtypes_and_a_Speculative_Structure.shtml

A population profile is a demographic display of a population's age distribution. On the "y" axis are age categories (usually ranging about 5 years) and on the "x" axis is the share of or total population within that age range. A population profile is useful in understanding the fertility and mortality of a particular population - depending on the shape! For instance a pyramid shape would signal high fertility and high mortality.

Dot Distribution

source: http://operationmilitarykids.ohio4h.org/resources/bycounty.html

Dot Distribution maps display information using dots with fixed values. So where a lot of dots are focused in one location, a high value or density can be assumed. The graph above depicts the location of military families in Ohio. Areas with a lot of dots correspond with larger urban areas with more families in general.

Isoline Maps

source: http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/atlas_mexico/

Isoline maps are drawn with continuous lines with each line representing a constant value. This is an effective way to display elevations where areas of same or similar elevation are drawn with the same continuous line. The map above shows average annual precipitation in Mexico - where you see a continuous line you can assume the same average annual precipitation.

Univariate Choropleth

source: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2010/list/maps.aspx

A univariate choropleth maps display a single variable using colors to depict the varying degree of that variable. In the example above, the incidence of poverty is depicted in degrees of low (yellow) to high (dark brown). Using this type of map makes it convenient to isolate a variable of information and quickly determine its distribution over a geographic area.

Flow Map

source: http://www.mundi.net/maps/maps_014/

Flow maps show the flow of information or things over a geographic space. The direction of flow and bulk of flow can be represented using arrows and varying line thickness. In the map above, traffic volume of voice telecommunication between European capitals is shown. Notice that one of the thickest lines is between Ireland and the UK.

Range-Graded Scaling

source: http://www.d.umn.edu/geog/cartfolder/HTML%20Pages/Map-Types.htm

A range-graded scaling separates data into classes with varying symbol sizes that correspond to the individual classes. Map readers can quickly discern the relative differences in value based on the definite sizes of the symbols used. The map above shows population distribution of Africa (1990) in each African country. The largest dot represents 90,987+ people.

Statistical Maps

source: http://kimberlysmappingproject.blogspot.com/2009/04/statistical-maps.html

Statistical maps are maps which are used to describe and visualize the variation of a particular subject in a given area. The map above depicts the amount of crimes in Denver. The map generally gives information over a set period of time and is used immensely in plotting government census information.

Digital Elevation Model

source: http://www.mapmart.com/Products/Digital-Elevation-Models/DEM/Digital-Elevation-Model-Ivory-coast.htm

A digital elevation model (DEM) is a highly detailed depiction of ground surface topography, displaying it digitally. The map above was produces using remote sensing techniques.

Cartographic Animation

source: http://cartography2.org/Chapters/page12/HistoryMapAnimation.html

Cartographic animation maps show information using animation (often as a progression of time). For instance, weather maps will show the progression of a weather system as it rolls over a geographic area (showing the varying size, shape, and intensity over time). In the map above, newly built houses are depicted as pop-up circles as a timeline progresses thru the 50s and into the 90s.

Digital Line Graphs

source: http://geography.wr.usgs.gov/sfcreek/dlg.html

Digital Line Graphs (DLG) are derived from hypsographic (elevation) data and represented as vector points in GIS applications. The USGS collects and revises DLG data files from manuscripts, composites of original map separates, and aerial photographs.

Black & White Aerial

source: http://freegeographytools.com/2007/goofing-around-with-pan-sharpening

Black & White Aerial maps are a subset of aerial photography. While colored aerial maps show greater detail of a particular area, black and white aerials are able to capture a much larger area. Colored aerials, in one study, were shown to capture 68 miles while a traditional black and white could cover around 129 miles. On top of having a wider captured span, black and white aerials can be combined with colored topography to show patterns and locations of different subject matters within the range of the aerial.

Digital Raster Graphic

source: http://egsc.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/factsheets/fs08801.html

Digital raster graphics are topographic maps digitized by the US Geological Survey (USGS). Each scanned image is georeferenced using the Universal Transverse Mercator projection. The example map above is a scanned image of the Potomac River (Washington DC).

Nominal Area Choropleth

source: http://politicalmaps.org/maps-of-the-2008-us-presidential-election/

Nominal area choropleth maps differentiate information based on a quality or name. So in the case of the map above, each state is either assigned the value of "Obama" or "McCain" and the reader can see which states' electoral college voted for Obaama (in blue) or McCain (in red).

Bivariate Chloropleth

source: http://rkpjrhist615.wordpress.com/category/geography-310/

Bivariate Chloropleth maps display two variables (bi-two:variate-variable) on one map by combining two different methods of depiction (usually colors or symbols). In the case of the example map above, rural population in Washington state counties can be visualized both as a share of county populations and as direct rural population size. Where you see large, dark blue circles in light green counties, you can assume that though the rural population is relatively large its share of the overall population is small (these counties probably have large overall populations). Conversely, small light blue circles in dark green counties signal small, mostly rural overall populations.