Which instrument is used as a tool for copying maps on a larger or smaller scale, usually formed by four arms arranged in a parallelogram?

Which instrument is used as a tool for copying maps on a larger or smaller scale, usually formed by four arms arranged in a parallelogram?

• A. Pantograph
• B. Light Table
• C. Map Compilation
• D. Spline

Answer: (A)

A pantograph is the instrument used for copying maps at different scales. It works with four arms arranged in a parallelogram so that moving a point on the map at one end causes a proportional, scaled version to move at the other end. This linkage preserves the shapes and proportions while enlarging or reducing the drawing, making accurate reproductions possible at any scale. A light table is for tracing lines with light beneath but doesn’t change scale. A map compilation is the process of assembling map data, not a copying device. A spline refers to a curved line used in drawing, not a physical copying instrument.

A pantograph is the instrument used for copying maps at different scales. It works with four arms arranged in a parallelogram so that moving a point on the map at one end causes a proportional, scaled version to move at the other end. This linkage preserves the shapes and proportions while enlarging or reducing the drawing, making accurate reproductions possible at any scale. A light table is for tracing lines with light beneath but doesn’t change scale. A map compilation is the process of assembling map data, not a copying device. A spline refers to a curved line used in drawing, not a physical copying instrument.