How does generalization relate to map scale?
Every geologic map is a representation of the actual geology on the ground. However, the mere act of rendering that geology on a piece of paper necessitates that boundaries be simplified. The smaller the scale of the map, the more simplification and generalization is needed (Figure 1a, Figure 1b). When small-scale maps are compiled from two or more large-scale maps covering an area, boundaries may be moved to join boundaries on adjacent maps. Complicated areas may be simplified (Figure 2a, Figure 2b). Units covering small areas on the large-scale map may be removed entirely. In some areas, boundaries may be inferred to fill in “blanks.” Areas without much detail may be that way because no one has spent much time mapping there. There may actually be quite a bit of complicated geology that has yet to be mapped. When considering your use of the map, keep in mind the accuracy of the boundaries between units. Realize that the boundaries on smaller scale maps are generalized and may not be i
