Cartography

Isarithmic maps have contour lines that separate the data in to various trends.  These maps take data that is more difficult to read and places it in a form that is more aesthetically pleasing and helps the viewer more than a map with just expansive data.  Above is an example.




Dot Density maps represent trends by using dots.  Each dot represents a set number of  occurrences.  It allows the viewer to look and immediately compare separate areas to each other.  This takes away some of the work on the part of the view.  Above is an example.





A choropleth map is one in which areas are shaded in according to the particular measures of the data.  This allows for an easy compare and contrast of various areas.  It helps people visualize how measurements vary with in a defined area.  Above is an example of a choropleth map that depicts the one-year forecast change in jobs.



A proportional map depicts numerical information in proportion to a circle scale. The map above depicts that the Mexican population decreases as one travels northward, with states along the boarder having larger percentages.

Isarithmic map example! 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4h62jRiUcc

Link to a really cool video showing the Isarithmic History of the two party voting in the United States!

Silent City of Rocks, Idaho

The Silent City of Rocks in Idaho has a great expanse of granite rock formations.  Scientists believe that the oldest granite exceeds 2.5 billion years in age.  This reserve is heavily used by mountain climbers.