Question

Which of the following probably makes use of a GIS? A. hand-drawn map giving directions to a friend B. smartphone mapping app C. map of the Roman Empire D. visual directory at a shopping mall

Short answer

Option B: smartphone mapping app.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding GIS

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are systems used to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data. Think about which option fits this description.

Analyzing each option

Review each option and assess whether it involves the use of technology to manage spatial or geographic data: A. Hand-drawn map - no technology involved.B. Smartphone mapping app - uses technology to present geographic data.C. Map of the Roman Empire - a historical map, no technology involved.D. Visual directory at a shopping mall - typically not using GIS technology.

Selecting the best option

Considering the analysis in Step 2, the smartphone mapping app (option B) is the one that most likely makes use of a GIS.

Key concepts

spatial data

Spatial data is any data that can be mapped. It refers to the information about the locations and shapes of geographical features and the relationships between them.
Essentially, it answers the question: 'Where is something located and what is it like?'
Spatial data can come in two main forms:

• Vector data: Represents features like roads, boundaries, and points of interest using geometrical shapes such as points, lines, and polygons.
• Raster data: Utilizes a grid of cells or pixels to represent real-world phenomena, such as satellite images or aerial photographs.

Applications of spatial data are vast and include urban planning, environmental monitoring, disaster response, and navigation systems. Understanding spatial data is fundamental to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) because it forms the basis for mapping and geographic analysis.

mapping technology

Mapping technology refers to the tools and software used to create digital maps.
These tools allow for the visualization and analysis of spatial data. GIS is a prime example of mapping technology.
Here are some common technologies and terms you might encounter:

• GPS (Global Positioning System): A satellite-based system used to determine precise locations on Earth.
• Remote Sensing: The acquisition of information about an object or phenomenon without making physical contact, typically via satellites or aircraft.
• GIS Software: Programs such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Google Earth that enable the processing and visualization of spatial data.
• Cartography: The art and science of making maps, which now often involves digital techniques.

Mapping technology has transformed how we understand and interact with the world, making it possible to navigate using smartphone apps, plan infrastructure projects, and study environmental changes on a global scale.

geographic analysis

Geographic analysis is the process of interpreting and manipulating spatial data to understand patterns and relationships in the geographic context.
This analysis can be used for diverse purposes, from urban planning to disaster management.
Key components of geographic analysis include:

• Spatial Queries: Looking for information that meets certain geographic criteria, like finding all parks within a city.
• Proximity Analysis: Measuring distances between different geographical features, such as the distance from a river to a residential area.
• Overlay Analysis: Combining multiple layers of spatial data to identify relationships, such as overlaying population data with healthcare facility locations.
• Network Analysis: Examining how different locations are connected, useful for optimizing transport routes or utility networks.

With GIS and geographic analysis, decision-makers can visualize complex data, identify trends, and make informed decisions that impact industries like transportation, public health, environmental conservation, and more.