Open map List

Scatterplot

A scatterplot (also called a scatter diagram or scatter graph) is a graphical representation of data points plotted on a Cartesian coordinate system to show the relationship between two numerical variables. Each point on the graph represents an observation with one variable on the x-axis and the other variable on the y-axis.

Basic

Introduction

Key Characteristics of a Scatterplot:

  1. Displays Relationships Between Two Variables – Helps identify correlations or patterns.
  2. Uses Cartesian Coordinates – One variable is plotted on the horizontal (x-axis) and the other on the vertical (y-axis).
  3. Each Point Represents an Observation – The position of each dot reflects its values for the two variables.
  4. Can Show Different Types of Relationships:
    • Positive Correlation – As one variable increases, the other also increases.
    • Negative Correlation – As one variable increases, the other decreases.
    • No Correlation – The variables show no clear relationship.

Examples

Examples of Scatterplots in Cartography & GIS:

  • Elevation vs. Temperature – Shows how temperature decreases with increasing elevation.
  • Population Density vs. Land Area – Analyzes the relationship between city size and density.
  • Rainfall vs. Vegetation Cover – Examines how rainfall levels affect plant growth.
  • Traffic Flow vs. Road Width – Evaluates how road size impacts vehicle congestion.

Outgoing relations