EarthRef.org Digital Archive (ERDA) -- Calculating Distances Between a Hotspot and Seamounts assuming a Flat Earth

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Detailed File Information

Calculating Distances Between a Hotspot and Seamounts assuming a Flat Earth

File Name	m00009.img.761.dist.hotspot.seamount.jpg
Data Type	model cartoon
Computer Program	Adobe Illustrator CS2
File Size	255.00 KB - 2 files [ jpg,pdf ]
Expert Level	Middle School (Grade 6-8)
Contributor	ERESE Database Team
Source	Enduring Resources for Earth Science Education (ERESE)
Resource Matrix	Hotspots and Absolute Plate Motion

Description
In this cartoon the distance between a hotspot and a seamount are simple calculated with the Pythagorean Theorem. This assumes a flat Earth, which of course is an over-simplification. This simple approach, however, can be used for seamount trails close to the Earth's equator in order to get a general idea about the distances involved.