If a map requires good shape preservation and reasonable accuracy of relative locations but not true direction, which projection fits?

• A. Mercator Projection
• B. Robinson Projection
• C. Mollweide Projection
• D. Orthographic Projection

Answer: (B)

Balancing distortions in map projections. When you want shapes to look correct and the relative placement of continents to feel right, but you don’t need true directional bearings, a compromise projection is the best fit. The Robinson projection is designed to minimize overall distortion by keeping continents recognizable and their locations sensible, while not aiming to preserve exact directions. It sacrifices perfect navigation accuracy to achieve a visually balanced, general-purpose world map.

Other projections focus on different goals: a direction-preserving option would keep bearings true for navigation but distort size and relative distances; an equal-area option would maintain area at the expense of shape; a perspective (like an orthographic) view shows a globe-like image with pronounced distortion away from the center.