Mercator Projection

Mercator projection

an orthomorphic map projection on which parallels and meridians form a rectangular grid, scale being exaggerated with increasing distance from the equator

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Mercator projection [mər′kād·ər prə‚jek·shən]

(mapping)

A conformal cylindrical map projection in which the surface of a sphere or spheroid, such as the earth, is conceived as developed on a cylinder tangent along the Equator; meridians appear as equally spaced vertical lines, and parallels as horizontal lines drawn farther apart as the latitude increases, such that the correct relationship between latitude and longitude scales at any point is maintained.

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Mercator Projection 

one of the cartographic projections. The Mercator projection is equiangular and cylindrical. In this projection all the loxodromes—lines on a sphere intersecting all meridians at the same angle—are represented as straight lines inclined at the same angle to the meridians. The projection is widely used in making marine and aeronautical charts, and it is also often used in oblique orientation. The projection was developed and first employed by G. Mercator in 1569.