Maps

A map is a visual representation of the world: a rendering of the contours, land masses and areas of water that comprise planet earth. A map is usually a static, two-dimensional affair such as a large scale globe, often seen in libraries and other public buildings. However, three-dimensional and interactive versions are now being used, for example, Google Earth, which enables the user to experience a sense of travel around the world. This interactive application allows the user to select a location in the world, such as a city, and then explore that location using the mouse and a set of controls.

Apart from the large scale maps of the world, there are other types of maps such as Ordnance Survey which is considered to be the most detailed and comprehensive type available. There are several versions of this, for example, the type used for hiking and other outdoor activities. This contains such details as hills, paths, roads and areas of water, such as rivers and lakes. Other types of maps include road maps: for example, the UK has a range of maps entitled ‘A to Z’. These show such details as roads and streets related to a particular city or area. Another related map is the road map of Britain which shows motorways and minor roads and is used when planning a journey.

Other more specialist maps include those produced for cyclists and walkers, and navigational maps. There are also electronic versions available such as satellite navigation systems and online versions such as Google Maps. These allow the user to enter the start and end points of their journey which the system will then calculate in terms of distance and time. There is also the option to select the quickest or shortest route. The end result is a breakdown of the intended journey, step by step, which for many people, is easier to use than a standard map.