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Plane Table for Dummies

noun

pronunciation: pleɪn_'teɪbəl

What does Plane Table really mean?

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Hey there, let's dive right into the fascinating world of geography! Have you ever heard someone mention the term "plane table"? It might sound a bit unfamiliar, but don't worry, I'm here to help you understand.

So, imagine you're a cartographer, someone who creates maps. You're out in the field, exploring a new area, and you want to create a detailed map of the landforms, like mountains and valleys, and the important features, like rivers and roads. That's where a plane table comes in handy!

A plane table is a simple yet powerful tool used by cartographers to draw accurate maps while they're out in the field. It consists of a flat surface, like a table, where the mapmaker can place their map, and it's designed to be portable, so they can carry it around and use it just about anywhere.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. The mapmaker uses the plane table to align the map horizontally, ensuring that it matches the actual ground surface. They do this by using principles of surveying. They place the table on a tripod or any stable surface, adjust it until it's perfectly level, and then secure it in place.

Once the map is securely fixed to the table, the cartographer can start making observations and taking measurements. They use special tools, like a compass or a theodolite, to determine the angles and distances between landmarks. By recording these measurements on the map, they can create an accurate representation of the area they're exploring.

So, in a nutshell, a plane table is a tool that helps cartographers create accurate maps by allowing them to align their maps with the actual terrain. It's like having a portable desk for making maps while out in the field!

Now, I bet you're wondering why it's called a "plane table." Well, "plane" in this context refers to a flat surface, like a table. Just like how you might have a plane piece of paper or a plane section of land. It's all about that flatness!

I hope that makes the concept of a plane table a little clearer for you. It's an essential tool in the world of cartography, and now you know how it helps mapmakers create accurate and detailed maps of the world around us. Keep exploring, my friend!

Revised and Fact checked by William Taylor on 2023-10-29 20:57:45

Plane Table In a sentece

Learn how to use Plane Table inside a sentece

  • A plane table is like a special table that we use to make maps. It helps us to locate different places on a piece of paper.
  • When we want to draw a map of a park, we can use a plane table. We put the paper on it and mark the different trees and paths.
  • If we are explorers and want to make a map of a new island, we can take a plane table with us. It helps us to draw the island accurately on a piece of paper.
  • Imagine we are playing a treasure hunt game in our backyard. We can use a plane table to create a map of the backyard and mark the spot where the treasure is hidden.
  • Have you ever seen a pirate movie? Pirates often use a plane table to draw maps of the places where they bury their treasure, so they can find it later.

Plane Table Hypernyms

Words that are more generic than the original word.