Question

Explain the properties of Mercator’s Projection.

Answer 1

Properties:

• It is an orthomorphic projection in which the correct shape is maintained.
• The distance between parallels increases towards the pole.
• Like cylindrical projection, the parallels and meridians intersect each other at the right angle. It has the characteristics of showing correct directions.
• A straight line joining any two points on this projection gives a constant bearing, which is called a Laxodrome or Rhumb line.
• All parallels and meridians are straight lines and they intersect each other at right angles.
• All parallels have the same length which is equal to the length of the equator.
• All meridians have the same length and equal spacing. But they are longer than the corresponding meridian on the globe.
• Spacing between parallels increases towards the pole.
• Scale along the equator is correct as it is equal to the length of the equator on the globe, but other parallels are longer than the corresponding parallel on the globe; hence the scale is not correct along with them.
• Shape of the area is maintained, but at the higher latitudes, distortion takes place.
• The shape of small countries near the equator is truly preserved while it increases towards poles.
• It is an azimuthal projection.
• This is an orthomorphic projection as scale along the meridian is equal to the scale along the parallel.