Equal area map projections, also known as equivalent map projections, are a type of map projection where every area on the map is proportional to its actual size on the Earth's surface. These types of maps are useful for accurately representing land areas and are commonly used in fields such as geography and cartography. There are several different synonyms for equal area map projections, including equal-area cartographic projection, equivalent map projection, and true area map projection. Each of these terms refers to the same concept of creating a map where every area is accurately represented in proportion to its actual size.