Which feature helps in determining distance on a map?

The scale bar is crucial for determining distance on a map as it provides a visual representation of distance measurements. It typically indicates a specific distance on the ground equivalent to a certain length on the map. By using the scale bar, users can accurately estimate real-world distances between points, helping them understand the spatial relationships present in the map. Depending on the type of map and its scale, the scale bar can also indicate different units of distance, such as kilometers or miles, allowing for versatile applications in various contexts such as navigation, planning, or land use analysis.

In contrast, while other features like the north arrow help with orientation, legends provide explanations of symbols used on the map, and grid patterns offer a way to identify locations, none of these directly assist in measuring distance as effectively as the scale bar does. Each serves a distinct purpose, but the scale bar remains essential for evaluating distances accurately.