The acquisition of data about Earth's surface from a satellite orbiting Earth or from other long-distance methods is known as ________.
A) geographic information system
B) remote sensing
C) global positioning system
D) cartography
E) none of the answer choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Remote sensing is the method of acquiring data about the Earth's surface using sensors on satellites or other platforms. This technique allows scientists to collect information about the Earth's surface from a distance, without physically being present. Geographic information systems (GIS) involve the processing and analysis of spatially-referenced data, whereas global positioning systems (GPS) are used to determine the precise location of a device or individual on the Earth's surface. Cartography is the science and art of map-making, which may use data from remote sensing and other sources. Therefore, the most appropriate answer is B) remote sensing.

The Acquisition of Data About Earth's Surface from a Satellite