Which type of map would show the shortest distance between New York and Paris?

The correct answer is based on the principle of great circle routes, which represent the shortest distance between two points on the surface of a sphere. In the case of New York and Paris, the path over Labrador and Greenland closely follows this great circle route, resulting in a more direct and therefore shorter distance compared to the other options.

The distance calculations for the other routes would reveal that they take longer paths. The route over Florida and Spain would take a longer detour to the south before heading to Europe, thus increasing the overall distance. The route along the 42nd parallel might seem straightforward, but due to the curvature of the Earth, it doesn’t necessarily provide the shortest path for these specific locations. Finally, the route over Philadelphia and London would not be efficient either, as it introduces additional detours eastward before reaching Paris.

By using the great circle concept, the route over Labrador and Greenland emerges as the most efficient path, effectively reducing travel distance between New York and Paris.