At what scale is data typically created where the only source of information is derived from the map itself?

The appropriate scale where data is typically derived solely from the map itself is often at the 1:100,000 scale. At this scale, maps are designed for a high-level overview, where significant details may be generalized or omitted. This limits the possible collection of empirical data directly from the field, necessitating reliance on the existing map's information.

In cartography, as the scale becomes smaller (numerically larger), such as 1:100,000, the level of detail often decreases. This reduces the opportunities for ground verification or new data collection, which aligns with the statement of obtaining information primarily from the map itself. At smaller scales, features can only be depicted as generalized representations, making the map the primary source of information without further field validation.

Larger scales like 1:10,000 or 1:25,000 typically offer much finer detail and are more suitable for local surveys or precise measurements, allowing for a combination of map data and field observations. Hence, they do not align with the idea of solely deriving information from the map without field evidence. The 1:50,000 scale also presents a relatively detailed view of the area but still does not inherently suggest that all data is exclusively sourced from the map without verification