Deck 1: Introduction

Question 1

Explain how the vector data model differs from the raster data model in representing spatial features.

Answer 1

No Answer

Question 2

Vector data are better suited for representing __________ features and raster data are better suited for representing __________ features.

A) discrete, continuous
B) continuous, discrete

Answer 2

discrete, continuous

Question 3

Define "geospatial data."

Answer 3

Geospatial data, also known as spatial data or geographic information, refers to data that is associated with a specific location or geographical area on the Earth's surface. This type of data is characterized by its ability to be mapped and includes information about both natural and man-made features, as well as the relationships and patterns that exist between them.

Geospatial data can be represented in various forms, including:

1. **Coordinates**: Using systems like latitude and longitude, Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM), or other grid-based systems to pinpoint exact locations.

2. **Maps**: Visual representations of areas, which can be thematic (showing things like climate, population density, or land use) or topographic (showing physical features like mountains, rivers, and roads).

3. **Imagery**: Aerial photographs, satellite images, or other forms of remote sensing data that provide visual or thermal representations of areas.

4. **Vector Data**: Data represented by points, lines, and polygons. Points can represent features like wells or trees, lines can represent features like roads or rivers, and polygons can represent areas like lakes, park boundaries, or property lots.

5. **Raster Data**: Data represented by a grid of cells or pixels, where each cell contains a value representing information, such as elevation or temperature.

Geospatial data is used in a wide range of applications, including urban planning, environmental management, resource management, navigation, disaster response, and more. It is a critical component of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which are tools used to analyze and visualize geospatial data to make informed decisions.

Question 4

Which of the following features is a discrete feature?

A) Precipitation
B) Elevation
C) None of these are correct
D) Roads

Question 5

Which of the following represents composite features?

A) TINs
B) None of these are correct
C) Lines
D) Polygons

Question 6

GIS software is only one of the elements of a GIS.

Question 7

GIS is often described as a tool for integrating data from different sources. Provide an example that supports the claim.

Question 8

An example of an open-source GIS is:

A) ArcGIS
B) Autodesk
C) QGIS
D) IDRISI

Question 9

Use an example to explain "volunteered geographic information."

Question 10

One of the components of a GIS is "organization." Why?

Question 11

Collaborative Web mapping is an example of Web 2.0.

Question 12

One can use both vector data and raster data in a GIS project.

Question 13

ArcGIS users can convert data they create in GIS and use the data with Google Earth.

Question 14

One would normally begin with ________ in a GIS project:

A) data analysis
B) data display
C) data acquisition
D) data exploration

Question 15

Explain how GIS and location-based services are linked.

Question 16

Which of the following activities can take advantage of a GIS?

A) transportation planning
B) interactive mapping
C) all of these are correct
D) crime mapping

Question 17

Mashup mapping allows users to combine ______ with Web-based maps:

A) all of these are correct
B) photos
C) videos
D) text and photos only
E) text

Question 18

Define a GIS.

Question 19

How does a GIS (e.g., ArcGIS) differ from Google Maps?

Question 20

Which of the following features is a continuous feature?

A) All of these are correct
B) Elevation
C) Precipitation
D) Both Precipitation and Elevation
E) Land use

Question 21

OpenStreetMap is often cited as an example of "collaborative Web mapping." Why?

Question 22

Define geosocial data.