Step 1: Concept
Map projections are mathematical methods used to represent the 3D surface of the Earth on a 2D plane.
Step 2: Meaning
Different projection types are suited for different regions. A world map requires a projection that can display the entire globe with an acceptable balance of distortion.
Step 3: Analysis
• Conical projections are best suited for mapping mid-latitude regions (like a single country or continent) because distortion increases away from the standard parallels.
• Planar (Azimuthal) projections project the Earth onto a flat plane touching a single point, making them ideal for mapping polar regions, but they cannot show the whole world at once.
• Cylindrical projections wrap a cylinder around the globe, allowing the entire global surface to be unrolled into a continuous rectangular map (e.g., Mercator or Robinson projections), making them the standard choice for world maps.
Step 4: Conclusion
Because they can continuously map the entire equatorial and global surface, cylindrical projections are the most suitable for world maps.
Final Answer: (A)