Karttaprojektio

Karttaprojektio refers to the mathematical transformation used to represent the three-dimensional surface of the Earth onto a two-dimensional map. This process inevitably involves distortion, as it is impossible to flatten a sphere without stretching or compressing parts of it. Various projection methods exist, each designed to minimize specific types of distortion, such as area, shape, distance, or direction, depending on the map's intended purpose.

Common examples of karttaprojektio include the Mercator projection, widely used for navigation due to its ability to preserve angles, but which significantly distorts areas near the poles. The Gall-Peters projection, on the other hand, attempts to maintain accurate area representation but distorts shapes. Other projections, like the conic or azimuthal projections, are often used for specific regions or purposes.

The choice of karttaprojektio is crucial for accurate map interpretation. Understanding the projection used allows users to identify and account for its inherent distortions, leading to a more reliable understanding of the geographical information presented on the map.