A cartographer is tasked with displaying population density across different administrative districts in a state by applying varying intensities of shading, where darker shades represent higher densities. Which statistical mapping technique is being described, and what is a primary cartographic limitation of this method?
- AIsopleth map, which inverts the numerical scale ratio when plotting continuous lines of equal value across administrative boundaries.
- Choropleth map, which falsely assumes a uniform distribution of the phenomenon throughout each administrative unit.Answer
- CProportional symbol map, which incorrectly assumes that doubling the map's linear scale doubles the represented surface area.
- DFlow map, which misattributes depositional statistics to upper course geographical regions.
Answer
The correct mapping technique is a choropleth map, whose primary limitation is creating an illusion of uniform population distribution across the entire administrative unit.
A choropleth map uses tonal shading or graduated colors applied to specific boundary units (such as states or districts) to display average values or densities. A major limitation of this technique is the false assumption that population density is evenly distributed across the entire area inside each boundary.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Choropleth Mapping and Spatial Data Generalization