globe can be useful when- we want to study the earth as a whole. But if we want to study only a part of the earth, e.g. a continent or a country, it is of little help. Map is the representation or a drawing of the earth's surface or a part of it drawn on a flat surface. It gives more information than a globe.

**Maps vs. Globes: Which is More Useful?**

Maps and globes are both valuable tools for representing the Earth's surface, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. In many cases, maps tend to be more useful than globes due to their versatility, portability, and the level of detail they can provide. Let's delve into the reasons why maps are often preferred over globes.

**1. Versatility:**
- Maps offer a wide range of projections that allow for different perspectives and purposes. They can be created based on specific needs, such as political, physical, topographic, or thematic maps.
- Different scales can be used on maps, enabling users to zoom in on specific regions or zoom out to view larger areas.
- Maps can be easily updated and modified to reflect changes in the landscape, such as new roads, cities, or political boundaries.

**2. Portability:**
- Maps are highly portable and can be easily carried or distributed. They can be printed on various materials and sizes, making them convenient for travelers, hikers, or researchers.
- Conversely, globes are bulky and not easily transportable. They require a stable surface to rest on and are less practical for on-the-go use.

**3. Level of Detail:**
- Maps can provide a higher level of detail compared to globes. They can display intricate features such as roads, buildings, landmarks, and even street names.
- With the advent of digital mapping technologies, maps can be layered with additional information like population density, weather patterns, or transportation networks.
- On the other hand, globes are limited in terms of detail due to their spherical shape, making it challenging to depict fine features accurately.

**4. Geographic Reference:**
- Maps offer precise geographic references, including latitude and longitude coordinates, which aids in navigation and orientation.
- Globes, while representing the Earth's true shape, lack an easily readable coordinate system, making it more difficult to identify specific locations.

**Conclusion:**
While globes provide a realistic representation of the Earth's shape and its relationship with other celestial bodies, maps offer greater versatility, portability, level of detail, and an efficient geographic reference system. These factors make maps more practical and widely used in various contexts, from education and research to navigation and urban planning. However, it is important to note that both maps and globes have their own unique advantages, and their selection depends on the specific purpose and requirements of the user.