Which type of map projection maintains equal lengths for all parallels of latitude with respect to the equator?

The Mercator projection is a cylindrical map projection that maintains equal lengths for all parallels of latitude, meaning that the scale is constant along these lines. This characteristic allows for accurate representation of angles, making it particularly useful for navigation since direction can be easily ascertained.

In this projection, the equator is represented with true scale, while lines of latitude farther from the equator are displayed increasingly larger. This means that while the shape of landmasses near the equator is more accurately portrayed, areas at higher latitudes appear much larger than they are in reality. The advantages of the Mercator projection thus lie in its utility for maritime navigation and its ability to represent straight lines for compass bearings.