A column chart uses vertical rectangular bars to represent data values. Each bar's height is proportional to the value it represents, making it one of the most intuitive ways to compare quantities across categories.
Surface Gravity Across the Solar System (m/s²)
Best for
- Comparing values across a small number of categories
- Showing rankings or ordered data
- Highlighting differences between groups
Avoid when
- You have more than 15 categories — use a horizontal bar chart instead
- Data is continuous over time — use a line chart
- You need to show parts of a whole — use a pie or stacked chart