Why might one spheroid be preferred over another for mapping?

One spheroid might be preferred over another for mapping because it provides a better fit for specific regions. Spheroids, which are mathematically defined ellipsoids used to approximate the shape of the Earth, vary in dimensions and orientations based on the geodetic system in use.

When mapping a particular area, a spheroid that closely matches the local geoid's shape can result in more accurate positioning and distance measurements. For instance, a spheroid optimized for North America, like the North American Datum 1983, considers the unique geological and physical characteristics of that region, improving the precision of geographical data represented on maps. Selecting a spheroid tailored to the specific area of interest minimizes distortions, leading to enhanced reliability in various applications, such as cartography, navigation, and geospatial analysis.

Given this, factors like cost, computational efficiency, and global acceptance are relevant but secondary. They do not directly impact the accuracy of spatial data representation, which is primarily governed by how well the chosen spheroid fits the local terrain.