What is a common characteristic of maps?

Maps are indeed subject to some sort of distortion, which is a fundamental characteristic that arises from the challenge of depicting the three-dimensional surface of the Earth on a two-dimensional medium. This distortion can manifest in several ways, such as in shape, area, distance, or direction. For instance, when projecting the Earth's surface onto a flat map, certain regions may appear larger or smaller than they are in reality, depending on the projection technique used.

This characteristic highlights the inherent limitations of maps; while they provide valuable information about geographical features, the representation is never perfect. Understanding this distortion is crucial for interpreting maps accurately and effectively, making it an essential aspect of cartography and geographical literacy.