What type of map displays the spatial distribution of different land uses in an urban area?

An urban land use map is specifically designed to illustrate the various categories of land use within a city or metropolitan area. This type of map highlights how land is allocated for different purposes such as residential, commercial, industrial, parks, and public services. It provides valuable insight for planners, architects, and policy-makers in understanding the spatial organization of urban spaces and aids in decision-making regarding zoning regulations and urban development.

The urban land use map typically utilizes color coding or symbols to distinguish between different land use categories, allowing for quick visual assessment of how an area is utilized. This is crucial for urban planning and development as it helps identify trends, needs, and areas for potential growth or redevelopment.

In contrast, other types of maps listed, like general land use maps and base maps, lack the detailed specificity of urban environments, while topographic maps focus on the physical features and elevation of the land rather than its usage. This specificity of the urban land use map makes it the most suitable option for displaying the spatial distribution of various land uses in an urban context.