Map projections lab

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Representing a spherical object on a two-dimensional surface is not an easy task. So much so that there are hundreds of map projections, each choosing to prioritize different properties, as shape, distance, or area.

Drag and move the Brazil shape to observe their distortions across the projections.

Mercator Cylindrical projection. Preserves shapes and angles, and severely distorts areas, especially near the poles.

Gall-Peters Cylindrical projection. Equal-area map projection, preserves accurate area ratios but distorts shapes.

Albers Conic projection. Balances distortions of area, direction, and distance. Optimized for mid-latitude regions.

Winkel Tripel Compromise projection. Minimizes overall distortion across shape, area, and distance.