It shows accurate size and shape, but distorts distances. Mercator Projection - created by Gerardus Mercator in 1569. Size and distance is distorted. Shapes and directions are good, making it good for sea travel. Robinson Projection - size and shape is good.
Distortions are mainly near the poles.
The equator divides the earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The North Pole is 90 degrees North latitude, the South Pole is 90 degrees South latitude. Meridians run north to south from pole to pole. Using the earth's grid system, latitude and longitude give you the absolute location of a place. Great Circles - the shortest distance between two places on the earth.