Short Paper: Basics of Geographic Coordinate Systems
Map projections are measured procedures that transfer the physical attributes of a globe
and transfers the data onto a flat surface. When choosing the proper projection for a map, there
are properties that need to apply to the map projections such as shape, distance, and direction.
The proper selection of a map projection will be determined by which projection property will be
the most important for the development of the map project and by selecting the proper coordinate
system with the greatest preservation to the assets of the data attached to the project.
The spatial data is inputted into coordinate geospatial systems as points, polygons, lines,
or raster layers. When data is entered into the geospatial system, the coordinates quantified are
represented in various characteristics. These characteristics can be represented as measurements
in feet, meters, or kilometers. Picking the correct measurement system to use in the project is the
initial phase in selecting a geospatial coordinate system that will display the data correctly with
the least number of distortions.
Since the Earth is a sphere and not flat, there is not a map that is perfect for all situations.
When maps are completed inaccurately, the end projection outcome is an unacceptable map
projection. The inaccuracy of the map may appear unpleasant, but it also a map distorts both the
data and the framework of the project. The geospatial rules of map projections are the main
significance to the importance of precision, readability, and the overall aesthetics of the map
project which are suitable to each exclusive project.
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