Which map type illustrates the surface features of an area?

The choice of a topographic map is accurate because these maps are specifically designed to represent the three-dimensional surface features of the Earth in a two-dimensional format. They illustrate important physical characteristics such as elevation, terrain relief, and landforms, using contour lines to indicate changes in elevation. This allows viewers to understand the geography of an area, including mountains, valleys, and plains, which is crucial for activities such as hiking, planning, and various land uses.

Political maps focus primarily on boundaries, locations of political entities such as countries, states, and cities, without representation of the physical landscape. Weather maps illustrate atmospheric conditions and meteorological data rather than topography. Thematic maps convey specific information related to particular themes or topics, such as population density or climate data, but do not prioritize the representation of surface features. Thus, topographic maps are the most suitable option for illustrating the surface features of an area.