An atlas is a collection of maps in book form, with different types including travel and table atlases. Table atlases can show current world maps, as well as different maps of the same place, including historical maps. Travel atlases have graphic overlays and indexes for easy use on the go. Road atlases show natural and built elements, with features for sightseeing and driving distance graphs.
An atlas is a collection of maps in book form. The atlases are made for different regions and areas and are prepared for desktop use or travel. A travel atlas is usually packaged for easy use while traveling, often with spiral bindings so it can be folded flat and with maps with a large zoom so they can be easily consulted on the go. A table atlas has the typical size and binding of reference books: usually a paperback or hardcover format.
Table atlases are made for a wide variety of purposes. A popular type of up-to-date atlas shows the current state of the world, with new versions being produced frequently enough to keep up with border changes, name changes, and other important new information. Maps in this type of atlas usually show lines of latitude and longitude to help readers pinpoint locations. Further aids to help the reader orient themselves are a compass rose to show north and an indication of the scale used, eg 1” = 1 mile (2.54 cm = 1.61 km). Legends are included as needed to reveal the meaning of any special symbols.
A table atlas can also contain a variety of different maps of the same place. For example, to reveal more about a particular place, the atlas might include maps showing population, political boundaries, natural resources, topography, religious affiliation, political affiliation, important products, and natural features. A historical atlas can show these topics as they were many years ago or as they change over time. Related material may appear in charts, essays, timelines, or timelines.
Because latitude and longitude indications for places on road trips would be time-consuming and complex to keep track of, travel atlases usually show a graphic overlay with letters on the side and numbers along the bottom so that locations can be pinpointed exactly. . Additionally, the locations for each page are listed alphabetically by map and cross referenced with the location in an index, which can also show population.
Road atlases usually show a combination of natural and built elements. It would not be surprising to find universities, airports, national forests, rivers and highways as well as cities, towns, villages and hamlets. A road atlas will often contain a map of the entire country, and then a more detailed map of each of the major political divisions, which in the US would be the 50 states, with magnified panels of major cities. Nearby locations are often shown, in the United States Canada and Mexico.
A road atlas may also have features to indicate sightseeing opportunities, including in the United States our national parks and recreation areas, as well as other sites showcasing beautiful nature, historic sites, and other tourist attractions. Driving distance graphs augment the mileage display system in addition to roads to help you calculate travel time and choose the best route.
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