-+*Final answer:
Winkel Tripel map projections are not suitable for determining precise distances, areas, or absolute directions because they minimize overall distortion of these elements for a visually balanced map, at the cost of precision.
Step-by-step explanation:
Winkel Tripel map projections cannot be used to determine precise distances, areas, or absolute direction from place to place. These projections are designed to minimize the overall distortion of area, direction, and distance, which makes them great for giving a visually pleasing representation of the Earth's surface on a flat map. However, due to this very characteristic, precision in measuring actual distances, areas, and directions is compromised. When map users require high precision, they often refer to maps with a scale that clearly indicates the ratio of distance on the map to the distance on the ground. For example, maps with a scale of 1:12,500,000 are less precise than topographic maps with larger scales like 1:24,000 which show much more detail. Furthermore, the effectiveness of a map scale can vary depending on topography—it is inversely proportional to the map scale and also depends on whether the area is flat or mountainous.
On a Niton Tripel map, not even a scale bar would suffice for accurate measurements because the scale varies across the map. This is unlike certain projections, such as the Lambert Conformal Conic Projection, which maintains more consistent scale along its standard parallels, as seen on maps with stated standard parallels, such as 9°N and 17°N. A map's legend frequently includes essential information such as scale ratios in kilometers and miles, a north arrow, and latitude and longitude markers, as well as explanations of symbols used.