Wyoming's Geographical Boundaries: Are They Rectangular?
Wyoming is a state located in the western region of the United States known for its vast landscapes and diverse geography. One of the interesting aspects of the state is its geographical boundaries, which are often described as somewhat rectangular. In this article, we will explore whether Wyoming's borders form a perfect rectangle and discuss the broader context of the geographical shapes of the western states.
Understanding the Geographical Borders of Wyoming
Wyoming, as with many other western states, has borders that are predominantly straight lines. These borders are a result of the surveying done by the federal government in the 19th century. The process of dividing the land into regular geometric shapes has a long history in the United States, with the system of standardizing the land surveying beginning with the Land Ordinance of 1785. This system was further refined over time, leading to the familiar rectangular grid that covers much of the country.
Is Wyoming a Perfect Rectangle?
Technically, if we consider Wyoming's borders as defined by straight lines on a flat map, it can be described as a rectangle. However, it is important to note that the Earth is not a flat plane, and geographical lines of latitude and longitude are not perfect straight lines on a spherical surface. This means that while Wyoming's borders may form a rectangle on a flat map, this shape would change when projected onto a globe.
It is also worth noting that the term "perfect rectangle" is often used loosely in the context of state boundaries. In reality, the borders of any state, including Wyoming, involve some degree of rounding or realignment due to natural features such as rivers, mountain ranges, and historical agreements.
Feature of Wyoming's Geographical Shape
Wyoming's rectangular shape is a common feature among many states in the western United States. Other states in the region that have similarly defined borders include:
Colorado: Another state with straight lines forming its borders, making it an almost perfect rectangle. Utah: Known for its hexagonal shape, Utah has borders that are mostly straight lines, creating a unique geometric pattern.These states are often compared due to their distinctive shapes, which can be attributed to the consistent surveying practices that were implemented in the 19th century. The methods used in surveying were designed to simplify the division of land for sale and administration, leading to the uniformity in the shapes of western state borders.
Conclusion
While Wyoming's borders are described as forming a rectangle on a flat map, it is important to remember that the Earth's spherical shape means that this representation would change on a globe. Despite this, the nearly rectangular shape of Wyoming remains an interesting feature of the state and several other western states. Understanding the history and methods behind the surveying of state borders provides insight into the development of the United States and helps in appreciating the unique characteristics of each geographical region.