Differentiate between developable and non-developable surfaces
A developable surface is one which can be flattened, and on which a network of latitude and longitude can be projected. Examples include a cylinder, a cone, and a plane. These surfaces form the basis for cylindrical, conical, and zenithal projections respectively.
A non-developable surface is one which cannot be flattened without shrinking, breaking, or creasing. A globe or spherical surface has the property of a non-developable surface.
The key difference is that developable surfaces can be flattened into a plane sheet without damage, while non-developable surfaces like a globe cannot be flattened without distortion or breaking.
Explanation
This question tests the fundamental concept of map projections from the chapter. The textbook clearly distinguishes between the two types of surfaces. Developable surfaces (cylinder, cone, plane) can be flattened and are used for creating map projections. Non-developable surfaces (globe/sphere) cannot be flattened without distortion. This distinction is crucial for understanding why map projections are necessary.