Illustrated Glossary
Coordinate system

Definition

A coordinate system is a reference system based on mathematical rules for specifying positions (locations) on the surface of the earth. The coordinate values can be spherical (latitude and longitude) using angular units of measure such as degrees, minutes and seconds or planar (Universal Transverse Mercator) using linear units such as metres. Cartographic boundary files, digital boundary files, representative points and road network files are disseminated in Lambert coordinates.

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For more information on the coordinate system, consult the Dictionary, Census of Population, 2016.

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