The Perceptual problems of colors in geographical maps

Abstract

A map is a symbolic representation differing in its shape and area from the origin it typifies, according to the scale used. Therefore, it requires briefing many geographical features, whether nature or human, so as not to clutter the map with information, and it can be read and interpreted clearly and easily. Hence, it needs to use specific  methods to clarify these features. Color is a positive force that affects the nervous system, which is a reason for drawing joy that cannot be underestimated when looking at it. Cartographically, color has a great factor in estimating the shape of geographical phenomena on maps and determining their sizes, development and dimensions, in addition to explaining distances, densities, movements and directions. Perhaps the question around which this topic and its content are about is: Will the effect of colors remain in the mind for a longer period of time than the effect of black and white which is also more attractive and impactful.? Hence, we say that color is an important and basic means of expression and understanding, but it has become a necessity, such as its use in some maps of modern distributions that clarify at the same time more than one dimension of a single geographical phenomenon, and also that depend on the installation of more than one cartographic design in one panel to express the geographic phenomenon entrusted by studying.