Cartogram
Topic: Graphical Representation of Data and Thematic Maps · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
A cartogram is a map that changes the size of each region to match a variable, such as population or GDP, instead of its land area. Shapes get stretched or squeezed, but each region's position stays roughly right. It fixes a weakness of ordinary maps, where large but thinly peopled areas catch the eye most. Election-result maps often use cartograms so that each area's size reflects voters or seats, not land.
Example
On a world population cartogram, India and China swell to become the largest countries. Russia and Canada are huge on an ordinary map but shrink sharply, because few people live there for their size.
Don't confuse with
- A choropleth map keeps true areas and shades units by a ratio. A cartogram changes the units' size to show the variable.