map coordinate systems

Physical Geology Helpful Lab Hints

Map Coordinate Systems

UTM system

On many topographic maps, the UTM grid is represented by thin black lines spaced 1000 meters apart.
On a topographic map, the numbers are written as ^####^000mN or ^####^000mE OR, more simply as ^####. When written in the ^#### format, the ^000mN or ^000mE must be added to the end as appropriate.
You may refine your location by measuring the additional meters north or east of the nearest UTM grid line using the metric graphical scale at the bottom of the map.
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U.S. Public land Survey System (PLSS or Tier, Range, & section system)

The PLSS (township/tier-range system) is described on page 34.
Remember, the descriptions are written from smallest to largest and can be read as "The ___1/4 of the ___1/4 of the ___1/4 of section ___ in Tier___, Range___."
Problem 4: only T3S, R4E is shown and numbered completely. You will have to use the Tiers and Ranges listed on the sides and top and the pattern of numbers shown in Township T3S, R4E.
helpful notes
- The PLSS is represented in red ink. The section numbers are written as close to the center of each section as possible. The Tier and Range numbers are written on the edges of the map as close to the Tier or Range boundaries as possible.
- To determine the quarter sections, use the green plastic overlay available in the lab. Place the section pattern over the section in which the feature is located.
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longitude, latitude system

The longitude-latitude system is described on pages 33-34.
Longitude and latitude are measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds (##° ##' ##"). The degrees, minutes, and seconds are given at the corners of the map, but along the sides of the map, only minutes and seconds (##' ##") are shown in 2' 30" intervals.
You will have to estimate between the 2' 30" marks.
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