* Geographic features: Landforms (mountains, rivers, lakes, oceans), political boundaries (countries, states, cities), and infrastructure (roads, railways, airports).
* Basic thematic information: This could include population density, elevation, climate zones, or land use, but usually at a broader scale.
Characteristics of a general purpose map:
* Large scale: General purpose maps usually cover large areas, like continents or countries.
* Emphasis on location: The primary goal is to show where things are, not necessarily how they are distributed.
* Balanced information: While some thematic information is included, the emphasis remains on geographic features and basic context.
* Clear and easy to read: General purpose maps prioritize legibility, often using standard cartographic symbols and conventions.
Examples of general purpose maps:
* World maps: Depicting continents, oceans, and major countries.
* Road maps: Showing highways, roads, and major cities within a region.
* Atlas maps: Providing an overview of a country or region with basic geographic features and thematic elements.
In contrast to specialized maps:
General purpose maps are distinguished from specialized maps, which focus on a specific theme, like climate, population, or geological features. Specialized maps often use different scales, projections, and symbols tailored to their particular topic.
In summary:
General purpose maps offer a broad overview of geographic information, serving as a foundation for understanding the world and its features. They are essential tools for navigation, education, and general knowledge, providing a common framework for understanding diverse places.