In which coordinate system should a thematic map of population density in different countries be created?

Creating a thematic map of population density involves representing spatial data in a manner that communicates information effectively. A geographic coordinate system is ideal for this purpose as it uses a three-dimensional spherical surface to define locations on Earth using latitude and longitude. This system is not dependent on any specific mapping projection, allowing for a direct representation of locations relative to the Earth's surface.

While a geographic coordinate system is useful for initial data gathering and representation, it's important to consider how the data will be analyzed and displayed. Thematic maps often benefit from the ability to portray area features accurately, which is why the projected coordinate system is preferred for many mapping applications. Projected coordinate systems transform the Earth's surface onto a two-dimensional plane, which can minimize distortion in area, shape, distance, or direction. This means that for presenting data like population density, where area representation is crucial, a projected coordinate system would ultimately provide a better visual context than a geographic coordinate system.

Local and geocentric coordinate systems serve specialized purposes that are not as well-suited for thematic mapping on a global or country scale. Local coordinate systems are focused on small areas and can vary greatly in terms of the origin and units used, while geocentric systems are more appropriate for calculations involving satellite positions, not thematic