For this section, you will need a ruler to make measurements on the Mercator map

For this section, you will need a ruler to make measurements on the Mercator map. You can print the appropriate section of the map. You will need to print it at 115% scale (actual size) . Open the map in the free ADOBE READER. Display the map at 115% scale (Note: the scale you need to use will vary depending on the size of your screen. 115% works well for a 13-14 in screen. If your screen is 15-16 in, try using 100%. In a 27 in desktop monitor 75% is about right!).
The scale in a map with a Mercator projection changes latitudinally. Answer the questions below and show your work. Make sure to write down your units.
1. Calculate the RF scale of the Mercator map handout at a) the equator, b) 45°S and c) 75°N (see p. 49, equations 2.2-2.6 in your textbook) Show your work. (3)
Note the following:
Take the width of Africa at the equator to be 3736 km (2321 mi), the width of South America at 45 °S to be 690 km (429 mi), and the distance across Greenland at 75°N to be 1100 km (684 mi).
Parallels are separated by an interval of 15 degrees of latitude.
2. Using the answers to question 1, calculate the scale factor (SF) of the Mercator map of the world at a)the equator, b) 45° latitude and c) 75° latitude. See page 60 and Fig. 3.3 in your textbook: Map Projection Properties > Scale. Show your work. (3)
3. Describe the observed differences between the Mercator and Gall-Peters projection. Which projection is conformal? Which projection is equivalent? Provide a brief explanation for the differences in the appearance of landmasses between projections. Provide evidence from each map to support your answer. Differences in appearance can be explained by discussing the differences in projection family, grid appearance, and the appearance of overlain circles (Tissot’s indicatrix.). You may refer to your textbook (pp. 72-74) and to this source to determine the appearance of a given projection: Your World Map is Hiding Something and Compare Map Projections
4. You are asked to make a map to compare forest cover per country with the least distortion in South America. Choose a specific projection and explain why. What aspect and central meridian would you choose? (3)
The figure above shows a great circle route between Yokohama, Japan, and San Francisco California on a (i) Gnomonic and a (ii) Mercator projection.
5. In terms of a navigator trying to maintain a constant compass heading, why would the great circle path shown above be difficult to follow exactly? (1)
6. How would both a Gnomonic and a Mercator projection be used together to aid in navigation? (2)
For questions 7 and 8 go to Interactive Album of Map Projections 2.0 (psu.edu)
7. Create a map that minimizes distortion of Australia. You will need to zoom into Australia (at least two clicks from the world map) and enter an appropriate value for the prime meridian and, depending on the projection, values for standard parallels. Make sure to turn on the distortion ellipses and the graticule. Also, make sure to click “Update Map” after each change. What projection and parameters did you use? Attach a screenshot of your map. (2)
8. Explain how the projection and parameters you’ve chosen provide the best representation of Australia with minimal distortion. (2)
Basics of Map Design
Critique the following maps in terms of map design. Name at least three things on how the design of each map can be improved.
9. Map 1 (3)
10. Map 2 (3)