Political vs Physical Maps

A physical map shows the natural features and landforms of a certain place. This includes deserts, mountains, plains, valleys, and more. Important and large areas are named on a physical map, including areas above and below sea level. The most common colors used on this type of map are blue, green, and brown. Physical maps are often used by pilots and mountain climbers. These maps are helpful because they help them determine their elevation.

Political maps show features of an area that are manmade, or created by people. This includes borders, boundaries, cities, capitals, highways, and more. These areas are named and marked on a political map. Bright colors are often used to display the features of a map. This allows the reader to easily locate key areas, such as boundaries between states or countries. Many maps and globes purchased today feature both physical and political features.