Topographic map

Topographic maps show the topography of the land. They are used to illustrate the physical features of the mapped area. This is an example of a topographic map of Brazil, it shows rivers, mountains, highlands, lowlands, deserts, etc..

http://www.brazadv.com/images/topographic%20map%20brazil.jpg

Thematic maps

Thematic maps are typically used to show a theme associated with a particular geographic area. This map is of Hawaii and breaks down the land to show ownership and function.

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.creativemappingsolutions.com/maps/thematic/thematic_map_1-web.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.creativemappingsolutions.com/maps/thematic/thematic1.html&usg=__xggfkkDGFaMt3UtrkrnUnr4ROYo=&h=1097&w=693&sz=211&hl=en&start=1&sig2=2UixEoeG-5yBZNZ-W1CYig&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=B1aa2mA-VxirqM:&tbnh=150&tbnw=95&prev=/images%3Fq%3DThematic%2Bmaps%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26rlz%3D1C1GGGE_enUS348US370%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=4VjSS9fSBML48Abm-u2qDw

Cadastral maps

Cadastral maps are used for exhibiting boundaries and ownership. This is from Delaware, Ohio and all the sections are color coordinated to show boundaries.

http://www.dalisproject.org/(S(mcnlbx55sbjep255ckkset55))/pages/findMapsheet.aspx

PLSS maps

These maps are created from the public land survey system and divides an area into ownership. This map is for Ohio.

http://rnp782.er.usgs.gov/atlas2/articles/boundaries/a_plss.html

Hypsometric maps

Through the use of shading and tinting, hypsometric maps show elevation. This example is of the moon.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3b/Moon_worldwind.jpg

Propaganda maps

Propaganda maps are used to promote a state or any similar entity. This example is showing English and Russian "superiority".

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3281/2722416468_1aebcdebb2.jpg

Dot distribution maps

On this mao historically active volcanoes are represented with dots. The distribution of dots shows that volcanoes are normally found on the meeting edges of tectonic plates.

http://www.geophysics.rice.edu/plateboundary/volcano.72.gif