My map does not have a correct ratio of scale.

I use a shape file (.shp) to create a map file from the province of Alberta in Canada. My .shp file is from the government of Canada so I am sure that the data is correct. However, when I use the mapshow command to create my map, I do not get it in a correct scale ratio. Alberta has a rectangular shape, but my map is almost square, as you can see below. My code: mapshow(myShapeFile.shp, 'FaceColor', 'green','line','none')

Answer 1

[Image Analyst]

Try various axis commands, like axis equal, axis square, axis image, etc. and see if any of them get it to look the way you want.

[Amir]

I tried them, but did not help!

Answer 2

[Sean de Wolski]

My guess is the projection that was used to create X/Y was not an equal area one and thus you are seeing the distortion because Canada isn't near the equator. Can you post the shape file?

http://www.mathworks.com/help/releases/R2015a/map/the-three-main-families-of-map-projections.html

[Amir]

Thank you Sean. You are right, projection might be my issue.

I have downloaded my shape file from: http://geodepot.statcan.gc.ca/2006/040120011618150421032019/02152114040118250609120519/021521140401182519011205_05-eng.jsp?lang=eng&catno=92-169-XWE2006010&Submit=Download

It is "ArcInfo" under the "Digital boundary files"