What is a defining feature of the Robinson map?

The defining feature of the Robinson map is that it minimizes distortion near the poles. This map is designed to provide a more visually appealing and realistic representation of the world compared to traditional projection methods.

The Robinson projection was specifically created to balance various types of distortion—namely, shapes, sizes, distances, and directions—making it particularly effective for displaying the entire globe. While some map projections might preserve one aspect, such as area or shape, the Robinson projection compromises on those aspects to create a more harmonious representation overall, especially keeping polar regions from appearing excessively stretched or compressed.

This approach enhances the usability of the map for general purposes, such as education and world geography, where a holistic view of the Earth's features is necessary. Therefore, its ability to reduce distortion at the poles while maintaining proportionality in other regions is what sets the Robinson map apart as a commonly used reference for depicting spatial relationships on Earth.