What does a north arrow on a USGS topographic map indicate?

A north arrow on a USGS topographic map indicates the direction of true north, which is essential for navigation and orientation. True north refers to the direction along the Earth's surface toward the geographic North Pole. When using a topographic map, understanding where north is allows users to accurately read the map, relate it to the surrounding terrain, and navigate effectively.

Maps often include a north arrow to help users orient the map correctly with respect to the real-world landscape. This function is crucial because the features and symbols on the map correspond to locations in reality, and knowing true north helps ensure that a person's movements and decisions in the field are based on accurate spatial understanding.

The other choices suggest directions or refer to magnetic properties that do not pertain to the north arrow's function on a topographic map. Therefore, the focus on true north as indicated by the north arrow is vital for effective map reading and navigation.