The problem asks which of the provided maps is connected. In graph theory, a map is connected if there is a path between any two points (or nodes) on the map, meaning that it's possible to travel between any pair of points without leaving the map.

Let’s evaluate the four maps:

• Map A: There are five points (A, B, C, D, E). All of them are connected through paths, either directly or indirectly. You can reach any point from any other point.
• Map B: There are three points (A, B, C), but there is no path between point A and either point B or C, so this map is not connected.
• Map C: Points A, B, C, and D are connected, but point E is isolated with no paths leading to it. Therefore, this map is not fully connected.
• Map D: There are four points (A, B, C, D), but the river divides the map into two separate regions. Points A and B are on one side, and points C and D are on the other side, so this map is also not connected.

Conclusion:

• Map A is the only connected map.

Would you like further details or explanations on connected graphs?

Here are some related questions:

1. What is the formal definition of a connected graph in topology or graph theory?
2. How do you determine if a graph is connected when visualizing it?
3. Can a graph be partially connected? If so, what is it called?
4. What are the practical applications of connected graphs in real-world mapping?
5. How does a river or barrier affect connectivity in map problems?

Tip: When analyzing connected graphs, always ensure that every node is reachable from every other node through some path, either directly or indirectly.