Question

Difficulty: MediumGIS and Remote Sensing Fundamentals

In Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis, discrete geographic features with clear boundaries—such as roads, river channels, and administrative zones—are represented using coordinate points, lines, and polygons. Which GIS data structure is specifically designed for this mode of representation?

  1. Vector data modelAnswer
  2. B
    Raster data model
  3. C
    Attribute data table
  4. D
    Digital Elevation Model

Answer

Vector data model
The vector data model uses coordinate-based geometry—specifically points, lines, and polygons—to represent discrete geographical features with defined boundaries.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the spatial characteristics of the features given in the stem.
Roads, river channels, and administrative boundaries are discrete spatial entities with distinct locations and clear boundaries.
Choosing between spatial data models requires distinguishing discrete objects from continuous surfaces.
2
Match the geometric primitives (points, lines, polygons) to the corresponding GIS representation model.
Points represent locations, lines represent linear networks, and polygons represent enclosed areas within the vector model.
The vector model explicitly stores coordinate geometry to maintain precise spatial boundaries for discrete features.

Key Concept

Vector vs. Raster GIS Data Models
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