What is a problem with using flat maps and a solution of using them?

Question

What is a problem with using flat maps and a solution of using them?

Answer 1

Flat maps can't represent the curved surface of the Earth accurately. Look at a world map and on most types Greenland looks almost as big as South America. That's from the distortion.

Different mapmakers have tried to correct this with the way they lay they draw the map. These methods are called projections and all have certain advantages and weaknesses. Go to the link below for a detailed explanation and examples.

Answer 2

latitudes are parallel but longitudes are not - therefore it is hard to draw a map on a rectangle shaped paper.  flat maps are therefore shown as if a globe was cut out appropriately  - this enables the country shapes to be retained to a reality

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