In geography and Earth science, what is the scientific study and practice of mapmaking called?

Introduction / Context:
Maps are essential tools in geography, navigation, planning, and many fields that require spatial information. The scientific and artistic discipline that deals specifically with creating maps has a well established name. This question tests whether you know the proper term for the study and practice of mapmaking.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The question is about the science of mapmaking.
- Several similar sounding terms are given as options.
- We assume standard geography and Earth science terminology.

Concept / Approach:
Cartography is the field that focuses on designing, drawing, and producing maps and charts. It combines scientific methods for representing the curved surface of the Earth on a flat medium with artistic choices about symbols, colours, and layout. Although other fields such as photogrammetry support map production, cartography is the specific discipline that deals with maps as final products.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that the word cartography comes from words for map and writing or drawing. Step 2: Recognize that cartography deals with projections, scales, symbols, and the communication of spatial information. Step 3: Identify that photogrammetry is related but different, as it focuses on measurements from photographs to derive map data. Step 4: Note that generic words like mapping do not refer to a formal scientific discipline by themselves. Step 5: Select cartography as the correct term for the science of mapmaking.

Verification / Alternative check:
Geography textbooks define cartography as the science and art of mapmaking. Many universities offer courses in cartography that cover map design, projection systems, and digital mapping. This confirms that cartography is the recognized technical term for this field.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: Coriography is not a standard term for mapmaking. The Coriolis effect is a separate concept in physics and atmospheric science.
Option C: Photogrammetry is closely related but focuses on deriving measurements and models from photographs, especially aerial and satellite images, rather than on map design itself.
Option D: Mapping is a general word for making maps, but it is not the specific name of the scientific discipline that studies map design and theory.

Common Pitfalls:
Because several terms sound technical, students sometimes confuse photogrammetry and cartography. Remember that photogrammetry is a method used to collect data for maps, whereas cartography is about representing that data effectively in map form. Focusing on the final product, the map, will help you remember that cartography is the core mapping science.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is cartography, the science and art of making maps and charts because this term specifically refers to the discipline that creates and studies maps.