What is the purpose of coordinate systems on maps?

The purpose of coordinate systems on maps is fundamentally to navigate and identify locations accurately. Coordinate systems, such as latitude and longitude, provide a standardized way to pinpoint any location on the Earth's surface. This is essential for navigation, as it allows individuals and systems to determine precise positions, plot routes, and communicate locations clearly.

The use of these systems enables not just geographic navigation, but also assists in a variety of applications such as military operations, travel planning, and search and rescue missions. Without coordinate systems, identifying specific places or providing directions would be significantly more challenging, making efficient movement and communication difficult.

Other options might relate to different functions. For instance, while tracking weather patterns is essential for meteorology, it does not directly involve the navigation aspect that coordinate systems provide. Similarly, although mapping population density and indicating time zones serve important purposes in geography and sociology, they do not primarily revolve around the need to navigate or find locations, where coordinate systems are most actively applied.