Absolute and relative location are two ways of describing the positions of people and places on the earth's surface. Absolute Location. From one perspective we can identify locations as precise points on the earth's surface by using an arbitrary, mathematical grid system of latitude and longitude. The coordinates of latitude and longitude are widely accepted and useful ways of portraying exact locations. Relative Location. Knowledge of locations and their characteristics is a key aspect of understanding interdependence on local, regional, national, and global scales. For example, where are schools located and why? Do the locations anticipate population growth or decline? |
Fig. 2a -- Three Illinois Boundary Close-ups; Bull Island |
Fig. 2b — Kaskaskia Island |