Have you ever looked at a world map and wondered why some countries seem much larger or smaller than they actually are? This is because most world maps use the Mercator projection, which distorts the sizes of countries that are farther from the equator. But don't worry, there are several ways to see the real size of countries.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Have you ever looked at a world map and wondered why some countries seem much larger or smaller than they actually are? This is because most world maps use the Mercator projection, which distorts the sizes of countries that are farther from the equator. But don't worry, there are several ways to see the real size of countries.
Why Do World Maps Distort Country Sizes?
The Mercator projection was created in the 16th century by Gerardus Mercator, a Flemish cartographer. This projection was designed for navigational purposes and was useful for sailors to navigate the oceans. However, it distorts the sizes of land masses as it stretches out the areas near the poles. This means that countries located farther away from the equator, like Russia and Canada, appear much larger than they actually are on a world map.
How to See the Real Size of Countries Using Online Tools
One of the easiest ways to see the real size of countries is to use online tools like The True Size Of. This website allows you to compare the size of countries by dragging and dropping them onto a world map. You can also search for specific countries and see how they compare in size to other countries.
Another website that allows you to see the real size of countries is The Peters Projection. This website uses the Peters projection, which is an equal area projection that shows the true size of land masses. It also includes a comparison tool that allows you to compare the size of countries side by side.
How to See the Real Size of Countries Using Physical Maps
If you prefer using physical maps, you can use an equal area map like the Gall-Peters projection. This map shows the true size of land masses but distorts their shapes. However, this map is not widely used and may be difficult to find in stores.
Another option is to use a globe. Globes are three-dimensional representations of the Earth and show the true size and shape of land masses. However, globes can be expensive and may not be as convenient to use as online tools or physical maps.
Question and Answer
Q: Why is it important to see the real size of countries?
A: Seeing the real size of countries can help you understand the world better and can help you avoid common misconceptions. For example, many people believe that Africa is much smaller than it actually is, which can perpetuate negative stereotypes about the continent.
Q: Are there any downsides to using online tools to see the real size of countries?
A: One downside to using online tools is that they may not be as accurate as physical maps or globes. Online tools may also be limited in the amount of information they provide and may not include all countries or territories.
Q: What is the best way to see the real size of countries?
A: The best way to see the real size of countries depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer convenience, online tools may be the best option. If you prefer accuracy and detail, physical maps or globes may be better.
Overall, seeing the real size of countries can help us better understand the world we live in and avoid misconceptions about different regions. Whether you use online tools or physical maps, it's important to be aware of the distortions that can occur in world maps and to seek out accurate representations of the Earth.
