Thematic Map

A thematic map presents information about a single theme within a geographic area. These maps can show a population density within a specific geologic area. In addition, the following can also be shown; cultural groups, economic, sociological and agricultural data.

This map shows the soil moisture of the United States.

Reference URL: http://soils.usda.gov/use/thematic/moist_regimes.html

Topographic Map

A topographic map presents the differences in the land. The map reflects the changes with mathematical measurements so that the user can calculate the changes in the land. The map uses contour lines, relief shading, hypsometric tints and will show depressions while using vertical and horizontal positions within the featured areas.

This topographic map is of Wesley Chapel FLA at Lat 28.2439*N and Long -82.362*W.

Reference URL: http://www.trails.com/topo.aspx?lat=28.2439&lon=-82.36203&s=50&size=s&style=drgsr

Planimetric Map

A planimetric map illustrates geographic, natural, and cultural physical features. This map will show the mapped features in a horizontal presentation using a x, y coordinates.


Aerial photographs of the selected area will show roads, physical structures will be compiled onto the map through photogrammetric procedures.

Reference URL: http://www.spatialdc.com/projects/hospitals.html

Mental Map

Mental connections within a person’s mind to plot a course through daily activities or their physical space. These maps are qualitative representatives of what people perceive as important in their environments.

The map was found on the personal website of Sorin A Matei. Mr. Matei stated that the map is a “two-dimensional collective mental map of Los Angeles resulted from 215 individual maps drawn by residents selected from 6 ethnic neighborhoods. It indicates that the area most feared in Los Angeles is Watts. The colors can be further transformed into an imaginary landscape, red areas becoming canyons and valleys and green areas mountains and peaks.”

Reference URL: http://mentalmaps.info/