What do symbols on a map primarily represent?

Symbols on a map primarily represent representational features, which encompass various elements such as physical landmarks, roads, rivers, and human-made structures depicted in a simplified manner. These symbols serve as visual shorthand, allowing map users to quickly interpret complex geographical data.

Using symbols, cartographers can represent not just physical features but also categories of information, such as types of land use or population density. Each symbol corresponds to a specific feature on the ground, making it easier for users to navigate the map and understand its contents without needing to refer to extensive text descriptions.

The other choices do relate to map content but do not fully encapsulate the primary purpose of symbols. Physical locations can be shown through symbols but are just one aspect of representational features. Imaginary boundaries, while relevant to some thematic maps, are not the primary representation of symbols in a general sense. Categorical data may also be represented through symbols, but this is just one type of information that can be conveyed. Understanding that symbols are versatile tools for representing a wide array of geographically relevant features enhances our grasp of map reading and interpretation.