How is a web map defined in ArcGIS?

A web map in ArcGIS is defined as a map that can be accessed and used across the web. This definition underscores the interactive and dynamic nature of web maps, which are designed to provide users with the ability to explore, analyze, and interact with geographic data online. Web maps are created using web services, allowing them to be easily shared, embedded in web applications, and accessed from various devices without the need for specialized software installations.

The capabilities of web maps include real-time updates, user interaction through queries and selections, and the ability to combine various data layers from different sources. This accessibility is a key feature, facilitating collaboration and information sharing among users and organizations. It opens the door to a wide array of applications, enabling users to visualize geographic information directly in their web browsers.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the characteristics of a web map. For instance, a printed map implies a static representation of data, which lacks the interactive components that define a web map. Likewise, a map stored on a local computer is not inherently accessible or usable by others over the web, limiting its collaborative potential. Finally, a map application that is only usable in ArcGIS Desktop fails to capture the essence of web maps, which thrive on cross-platform functionality