Maps are representations of the Earth's surface drawn to scale on a flat surface. They provide more detailed information than globes and are easier to transport. An atlas is a collection of maps. There are different types of maps like physical, political, and thematic maps. Key components of maps include distance and scale, directions, and symbols. Distance is shown using scales that relate measurements on the map to actual distances. Symbols are used to depict features since exact sizes cannot be drawn. Sketches are rough drawings without scale based on memory while plans are large-scale drawings of small areas.