What does a representative fraction (RF) express?

A representative fraction (RF) expresses the ratio of distance on a map to actual distance in the real world. This type of scale indicates how much a certain length on a map corresponds to a specific length on the Earth's surface. For example, an RF of 1:50,000 means that 1 unit of measurement on the map (such as an inch or centimeter) represents 50,000 of the same units in reality. This concept is crucial for map reading and understanding geographical information, as it allows users to interpret distances accurately, thereby aiding in navigation and planning. The RF offers a clear and direct way to understand spatial relationships, essential for various applications in geography.

The other choices, while related to geographical concepts, do not accurately reflect what a representative fraction measures. Population density, elevation levels, and total area coverage pertain to different aspects of geography and are not characteristics represented by the RF.