Question

Which of the following is not a primary function of a map ?

• A. Spatial representation
• B. Communication of geographic data
• C. Exact replication of reality
• D. Visualization of patterns

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Exact replication of reality

• A map can never be an exact replication of reality. By definition, a map is a simplified, abstracted, and scaled-down representation of a three-dimensional Earth onto a two-dimensional surface.

• To make a map functional, cartographers must use selection, generalization, and symbolization. If a map were an exact replication, it would have to be the exact same size as the world itself, rendering it entirely useless.