Data Processing

Question 1

What is a dot distribution map?

Answer 1

Maps in which each dot represents a unit of the variable, specified in the key. Patterns show distribution (clustered, random, regular…)

Question 2

Advantages of a dot distribution map:

Answer 2

+ raw data is retained
+ spatial distribution is obvious
+ quick to draw
+ highly versatile

Question 3

Disadvantages of a dot distribution map:

Answer 3

+ requires explanation of location
+ time consuming to count dots
+ larger regions appear to have higher frequency
+ dots can merge

Question 4

What is a proportional circles map?

Answer 4

A map in which the value of a variable is represented by the size of its circle on a map.

Question 5

Advantages of a proportional circles map:

Answer 5

+ spatial patterns are obvious
+ relative key allows comparison
+ highest abs lowest values can be identified
+ effective when using a small number of sites

Question 6

Disadvantages of a proportional circles map:

Answer 6

+ symbols overlap
+ map becomes clustered, patterns not obvious
+ underlying features are obscured
+ precision of location reduced by symbol

Question 7

What is an isopleth map?

Answer 7

A map I that features colour coded lines of value. The lines are accompanied by a key.

Question 8

Advantages of an isopleth map:

Answer 8

+ quick to complete
+ fixed intervals means changes are obvious
+ spatial patterns can be identified
+ raw data is retained

Question 9

Disadvantages of an isopleth map:

Answer 9

+ subjective - people choose different line values
+ complex patterns may be hidden
+ intermediate values are lost
+ small lines are hard to interpret

Question 10

What is a scatter graph?

Answer 10

A graph that features a line of best fit, and a surrounding pattern of dot values

Question 11

Advantages of scatter graphs:

Answer 11

+ large amounts of data plotted in a small space
+ anomalies can be seen
+ patterns are obvious

Question 12

Disadvantages of scatter graphs:

Answer 12

+ only two variables can be displayed
+ easy to make mistakes when creating
+ best fit line may show misleading relationship

Question 13

What are the two main types of scatter graph correlation?

Answer 13

Positive and negative

Question 14

What are the three subcategories of positive or negative correlations?

Answer 14

Strong, moderate and weak

Question 15

What is a bipolar analysis graph?

Answer 15

A horizontal axis graph that features a negative and a positive axis.

Question 16

Generic advantages:

Answer 16

\+ easy to complete
\+ raw data is retained
\+ distribution/patterns are evident
\+ allows easy comparison 
\+ large amounts of data can be plotted

Question 17

Generic disadvantages:

Answer 17

\+ difficult to interpret
\+ symbols merge
\+ raw data is lost
\+ precise values are lost
\+ easy to make mistakes when completing

Question 18

What processing method is used with the nearest neighbour index?

Answer 18

A dot distribution map

Question 19

What processing method is used with standard deviation?

Answer 19

Scatter graph

Question 20

What processing method is used with chi squared, spearman’s rank and Pearson’s coefficient?

Answer 20

Hypothesis testing

Question 21

What processing method is used with an environmental quality survey?

Answer 21

Bipolar analysis