HISET Social Studies Practice

What does an atlas primarily consist of?

1. A book of maps

2. A collection of statistics

3. A reference guide for authors

4. A directory of locations

The correct answer is: A book of maps

An atlas primarily consists of a book of maps, which serve as visual representations of geographical information. These maps can include various types of information, such as political boundaries, physical landscapes, transportation routes, and thematic elements like climate or demographic data. The central function of an atlas is to provide users with detailed geographic context, making it essential for understanding spatial relationships and navigational needs. While a collection of statistics, a reference guide for authors, and a directory of locations may provide useful information, they do not encapsulate the primary purpose or content of an atlas, which is to compile and present maps in an organized format for ease of use and study.