What does a map's scale help in determining?

A map's scale is a critical feature that allows users to understand the relationship between distances on the map and actual distances in the real world. It provides a proportionate measure, often expressed as a ratio, fraction, or visual graphic that shows how much distance on the map represents a given distance on the ground. This enables individuals to accurately calculate the distance between two locations, plan travel routes, and comprehend the size of areas represented, making option B the correct choice.

Other features such as political boundaries, historical information, and types of landforms may be depicted on a map but are not determined by the scale itself. Instead, these elements are based on the content and design of the map, rather than the measure of distance.