Sphere
Introduction
A sphere is defined mathematically as a three-dimensional surface with every point on its surface has the same distance (radius) from its centre.
Instead of using the ellipsoid as reference surface for mapping, the sphere might be sufficient for certain mapping tasks. In practice, maps at scale 1:5,000,000 or smaller can use the mathematically simpler sphere without the risk of large distortions. At larger scales, the more complicated mathematics of ellipsoids are needed to prevent these distortions in the map.
Learning outcomes
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7 - Coordinate systems and map projections
Explain the relevance of reference surfaces, coordinate systems, and coordi-nate transformations in mapping (level 1 and 2).
Outgoing relations
- Sphere is a kind of Reference surface