What is a map legend?

• A. A map legend is the scale that shows distance.
• B. A map legend explains map symbols and their meanings.
• C. A map legend shows compass directions only.
• D. A map legend identifies the author of the map.

Answer: (B)

A map legend is the key that explains the symbols used on the map. It tells you what the colors, lines, and icons represent so you can read the map accurately. For example, blue lines might show rivers, solid red lines could represent highways, green areas might indicate parks, and a small symbol could mark a school. Without the legend, those symbols would be unclear. The scale is a separate feature that shows distance, and the compass direction helps you orient the map. The author or source information isn’t part of the legend. So, the legend’s purpose is to explain map symbols and their meanings.