This document discusses key concepts and technologies used to locate and represent geographic locations on Earth. It introduces latitude and longitude coordinates, cartographic projections, topographic maps, the Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and applications like geocoding and reverse geocoding. The overall goal is to explore how accurately locating places is essential for navigation, planning, management and other areas.

1. Introduction
to Locating
Places on
Earth
Accurately locating and mapping places on the Earth's surface is essential
for navigation, urban planning, resource management, and many other
applications. This presentation will explore the key concepts and
technologies used to locate and represent geographic locations.
by Edchel Espeña

2. Latitude and Longitude Coordinates
Latitude
Imaginary lines that run east-
west and measure the distance
north and south of the equator.
Longitude
Imaginary lines that run north-
south and measure the
distance east and west of the
prime meridian.
Coordinate System
By using latitude and longitude,
we can precisely locate any
point on the Earth's surface.

3. Cartographic Projections
1 Flat Maps
The Earth's curved
surface cannot be
accurately represented on
a flat 2D map. This
requires distorting the
map in various ways.
2 Projection Types
Common projections
include Mercator, Gall-
Peters, and Winkel Tripel,
each with their own trade-
offs.
3 Distortion
Reduction
Choosing the right
projection minimizes
distortion of landmasses,
shapes, and sizes.

4. Topographic Maps
Contour Lines
Topographic maps use contour lines to show
the elevation and shape of the land.
Relief Features
They depict hills, valleys, mountains, and other
landforms to provide a detailed view of the
terrain.
Scale and Legend
Topographic maps have a scale and legend to
interpret the spatial relationships and map
features.
Applications
Widely used for activities like hiking, camping,
and military planning.

5. Global Positioning System (GPS)
1 Satellites
A network of satellites orbiting the Earth that continuously transmit location data.
2 Receivers
GPS devices that receive and process the satellite signals to determine precise
location.
3 Accuracy
Modern GPS can provide location data accurate to within a few meters.

6. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Data Storage
GIS stores and
manages large
amounts of geographic
data.
Spatial Analysis
GIS allows for
advanced spatial
analysis and modeling.
Visualization
GIS provides powerful
tools to visualize and
map geographic data.
Applications
GIS is used in urban
planning,
environmental
management,
transportation, and
more.

7. Geocoding and Reverse Geocoding
Geocoding
The process of converting
addresses into geographic
coordinates (latitude and
longitude).
Reverse Geocoding
The opposite process of
converting geographic
coordinates into a physical
address.
Applications
Used in mapping, navigation,
and location-based services.

8. Practical Applications of Locating Places
Navigation Routing, directions, and location-based services.
Urban Planning Analyzing demographics, infrastructure, and land
use.
Emergency Response Quickly locating and dispatching to incidents.
Resource Management Tracking and optimizing the distribution of goods
and services.