Which type of map shades areas according to a prearranged key, with each shading representing a range of values?

Which type of map shades areas according to a prearranged key, with each shading representing a range of values?

• A. Choropleth
• B. Proportional Symbol
• C. Dot Density
• D. Heat Map

Answer: (A)

A choropleth map is a type of thematic map that visually represents data by using different shades or colors to signify different values or ranges of a particular variable across geographic areas. This method allows for easy comparison and visualization of data trends, as the varying shades can indicate categories such as population density, income levels, or election results, for example. Each shaded area corresponds to specific values based on a key, helping viewers understand how the variable is distributed spatially. The use of a prearranged key ensures that viewers can interpret the colors or shades consistently, linking them to defined ranges of data. In contrast, a proportional symbol map uses symbols of varying sizes to represent data magnitude, while a dot density map illustrates quantity with dots scattered over an area, showing frequency but not distinct ranges of values. A heat map visualizes data density or intensity through color gradients but does not categorize areas with specific shades based on a predetermined key.

A choropleth map is a type of thematic map that visually represents data by using different shades or colors to signify different values or ranges of a particular variable across geographic areas. This method allows for easy comparison and visualization of data trends, as the varying shades can indicate categories such as population density, income levels, or election results, for example.

Each shaded area corresponds to specific values based on a key, helping viewers understand how the variable is distributed spatially. The use of a prearranged key ensures that viewers can interpret the colors or shades consistently, linking them to defined ranges of data.

In contrast, a proportional symbol map uses symbols of varying sizes to represent data magnitude, while a dot density map illustrates quantity with dots scattered over an area, showing frequency but not distinct ranges of values. A heat map visualizes data density or intensity through color gradients but does not categorize areas with specific shades based on a predetermined key.