Which projection has a maximum azimuth error of 0° 4'?

• A. Lambert Zenithal projection
• B. Lambert projection
• C. Polyconic projection
• D. Mercator projection

Answer: (A)

In zenithal (azimuthal) projections, distortion of direction is most critical as you move away from the center. A projection that keeps azimuths close to true directions from the center will have a very small maximum azimuth error. The Lambert zenithal projection is designed to minimize angular distortion from the center, so its worst-case azimuth error is extremely small—0° 4'. That tiny deviation means directions from the center are preserved much more faithfully across the map than in the other projections listed. The Lambert cylindrical projection, Polyconic, and Mercator don’t aim for such tight angular fidelity from the center; they introduce larger azimuth distortions as you move away from the center, or they optimize other properties instead. Hence, the Lambert zenithal projection stands out as the one with the smallest maximum azimuth error.