What is the system called that transfers locations from Earth's surface to a flat map?

• A. Globe
• B. Projection
• C. Compass
• D. Scale

Answer: (B)

Map projection is the method used to transfer locations from Earth's curved surface onto a flat map. Because a globe cannot be laid out on a plane without distortion, a projection uses a chosen mathematical scheme to convert latitude and longitude into x,y coordinates on a map. Different projections prioritize different properties—some keep shapes (angles) intact, others preserve areas, distances, or directions, depending on the map’s purpose. This is why the term projection specifically describes the process of flattening the surface into a map. A globe is the 3D model of Earth, not the flattening method. A compass is a directional instrument. A scale is the ratio between map distances and real-world distances, not the transfer method itself.