Projected Coordinate System
A Projected Coordinate System (PCS) is a method used to represent the three-dimensional surface of the Earth on a two-dimensional map. It involves transforming geographic coordinates, which are based on latitude and longitude, into a flat plane. This transformation helps in accurately measuring distances, areas, and angles on maps.
Different types of projected coordinate systems exist, each designed for specific purposes and regions. For example, the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) system divides the world into zones, allowing for precise mapping in smaller areas. Understanding PCS is essential for fields like cartography, geography, and geographic information systems (GIS).