2.3. GIS data types

Lesson Summary

In this lesson, we delved into the building blocks of GIS which are the different types of data that provide insights into our world. The key data types discussed are:

  • Vector Data: Represented by points, lines, and polygons, utilized for marking locations, connecting points, and defining areas respectively.
  • Raster Data: Comprised of pixels, capturing features like elevation, temperature, or land cover, commonly sourced from satellite images for continuous phenomena representation.
  • Attributes Data: Information attached to vector data such as names, populations, or temperatures, adding context to map shapes and lines.
  • Metadata: Data about the data, offering information on data sources, collection dates, representation details, and data accuracy, crucial for evaluating GIS data quality and usability.

Understanding these distinct data types is fundamental in the field of GIS and aids in interpreting geographic and spatial information effectively.

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