What does a small-scale map typically show?

A small-scale map is designed to represent a larger geographic area compared to a large-scale map. This distinction is important in cartography, as 'scale' refers not to a fixed size, but to the relationship between distance on the map and actual distance on the ground. In essence, small-scale maps depict broader regions with less detail, allowing for the visualization of more extensive areas, such as states, countries, or continents.

For example, a small-scale map might illustrate an entire country, while a large-scale map would focus on a city or neighborhood, offering more detail about specific features. Thus, the correct understanding of a small-scale map is that it zooms out to present a wider perspective, making option A the appropriate choice.

Conversely, the other options do not accurately reflect the function of small-scale maps or misinterpret the relationship between map scale and geographic scope.