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GIS Final Terms Flashcards

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1
Q

What is GIS?

A

GIS (Geographic Information System) is a computerized application that combines an interactive map with a database of related information. It transforms raw data into useful insights.

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2
Q

What is GPS?

A

GPS (Global Positioning System) is a technology for determining precise locations on Earth using a constellation of satellites. It’s distinct from GIS but often used in conjunction with it.

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3
Q

What is the Vector Data Model?

A

The Vector Data Model represents geographic entities as discrete objects: points, lines, or polygons. Each object can have attributes stored in an associated attribute table.

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4
Q

What is the Raster Data Model?

A

The Raster Data Model represents geographic entities as a grid of pixels, where each pixel holds a value representing a single attribute. It’s suitable for representing continuous data.

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5
Q

What is a Feature in GIS?

A

A Feature is a distinct geographic entity, represented as a point, line, or polygon in a vector data model, or as a group of pixels with similar values in a raster data model.

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6
Q

What is an Attribute Table?

A

An Attribute Table is associated with a vector data layer, storing information about each feature in the layer. Each row represents a feature, and each column represents a different attribute.

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7
Q

What is a Point in GIS?

A

A Point is a zero-dimensional vector object representing a specific location.

Examples include wells, landmarks, and cities.

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8
Q

What is a Line in GIS?

A

A Line is a one-dimensional vector object defined by two points connected by a line segment.

Examples include roads, streams, and pipelines.

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9
Q

What is a Polyline?

A

A Polyline is a connected series of line segments.

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10
Q

What is a Polygon in GIS?

A

A Polygon is a two-dimensional vector object formed by a closed polyline, enclosing an area.

Examples include counties, tax parcels, and land use areas.

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11
Q

What is a Pixel?

A

A Pixel is the basic unit of a raster image, representing a square area on the ground.

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12
Q

What does RGB stand for in color models?

A

Red, Green, Blue

RGB is a color model used in raster images, where each pixel’s color is defined by the intensity of red, green, and blue light.

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13
Q

What is the Overlay Function in GIS?

A

A core GIS function enabling the visual and analytical combination of multiple data layers

It helps to understand spatial relationships.

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14
Q

Define Precision in the context of spatial data quality.

A

The degree of variance in repeated measurements of a single entity

Often expressed in terms of standard deviation, indicating the consistency of measurements.

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15
Q

What does Accuracy measure?

A

How close the average of a set of measurements is to the true value

It represents the correctness of measurements.

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16
Q

What is RMSE?

A

Root Mean Square Error

A statistical measure quantifying the accuracy of a dataset, calculated as the square root of the average squared differences between observed values and true values.

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17
Q

Define Systematic Error.

A

A consistent, repeatable error in measurements

Often due to instrument bias or flawed methodology.

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18
Q

What are the National Map Accuracy Standards?

A

A set of standards established by the USGS for the accuracy of maps

They specify the allowable positional error for a certain percentage of well-defined points.

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19
Q

What is Random Error?

A

Unpredictable errors in measurements due to chance variations

These errors are not consistent and can occur randomly.

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20
Q

What does LIDAR stand for?

A

Light Detection and Ranging

A remote sensing method using laser pulses to measure distances and generate highly accurate elevation data.

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21
Q

What is Trilateration?

A

The process of determining a location by measuring distances from multiple known points

It is used in GPS positioning.

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22
Q

What does PDOP stand for?

A

Position Dilution of Precision

A measure of the geometric strength of GPS satellite configuration, affecting the accuracy of position calculations.

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23
Q

What is WAAS?

A

Wide Area Augmentation System

A system enhancing GPS accuracy by providing correction signals, leading to more precise positioning.

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24
Q

Fill in the blank: A _______ is a unique code assigned to each GPS satellite used to differentiate signals and calculate distances.

A

Pseudo-Random Code

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25
What is a GPS satellite used for?
To differentiate signals and calculate distances ## Footnote GPS satellites are essential for determining precise locations on Earth.
26
What is Differential GPS?
A technique improving GPS accuracy by using a reference station with a known position to correct errors in measurements ## Footnote This method enhances the precision of GPS data.
27
What does the EM Spectrum represent?
The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, infrared, and microwaves ## Footnote The EM Spectrum encompasses all forms of electromagnetic radiation.
28
Define Visible Light.
The portion of the EM spectrum that is visible to the human eye, comprising colors from red to violet ## Footnote Visible light is a small part of the entire electromagnetic spectrum.
29
What is Infrared radiation?
Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than visible light, used in remote sensing for vegetation analysis and temperature mapping ## Footnote Infrared is important for various environmental studies.
30
What are Microwaves?
Electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths than infrared, used in remote sensing for penetrating clouds and imaging Earth's surface ## Footnote Microwaves are crucial for weather observation and Earth imaging.
31
What is a Blackbody?
An idealized object that absorbs all incident radiation and emits radiation based on its temperature ## Footnote Blackbodies are theoretical constructs used in thermodynamics and physics.
32
What is Spectral Response?
The characteristic pattern of reflectance or emission of electromagnetic radiation by different materials ## Footnote This concept is essential for identifying and differentiating land cover types in remote sensing.
33
Define Spatial Resolution.
The size of the smallest detail that can be distinguished in a remotely sensed image, often expressed as the pixel size ## Footnote Higher spatial resolution means more detail in images.
34
What does Spectral Resolution refer to?
The ability of a remote sensing sensor to distinguish between different wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation ## Footnote Higher spectral resolution allows for better material identification.
35
What is Temporal Resolution?
The frequency with which a remote sensing sensor acquires data over a particular area ## Footnote Temporal resolution is important for monitoring changes over time.
36
What is KVR-1000/SPIN-2?
A Russian satellite imagery product providing high-resolution visible-light images ## Footnote This product is used for various applications in remote sensing.
37
What does SPOT stand for?
Satellite Pour l'Observation de la Terre ## Footnote SPOT satellites are known for high-resolution multispectral imagery.
38
Define Radiometric Resolution.
The sensitivity of a remote sensing sensor to variations in electromagnetic energy, affecting the accuracy of brightness measurements ## Footnote Higher radiometric resolution allows for more precise measurements of energy levels.
39
What is DMSP?
Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, a US military satellite program providing global weather data including cloud cover and precipitation. #DMSP plays a crucial weather forecasting and environmental monitoring.
40
What is IKONOS?
A commercial Earth observation satellite providing high-resolution imagery. ## Footnote IKONOS was one of the first satellites to provide high-resolution commercial imagery.
41
What does Landsat provide?
Moderate-resolution multispectral imagery. ## Footnote Landsat is a long-running US Earth observation satellite program.
42
What is MODIS?
A sensor on NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites providing moderate-resolution imagery for monitoring Earth's vegetation, land surface temperature, and other parameters. ## Footnote MODIS stands for Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer.
43
What does GPM stand for?
Global Precipitation Measurement. ## Footnote GPM is a NASA satellite mission providing global precipitation data.
44
What does SMOS measure?
Soil moisture and ocean salinity using microwave radiometry. ## Footnote SMOS stands for Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity.
45
What is the purpose of GRACE?
To measure changes in Earth's gravity field, providing insights into water storage, ice mass changes, and other phenomena. ## Footnote GRACE stands for Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment.
46
What does TOPEX/POSEIDON measure?
Sea level and ocean circulation using radar altimetry. ## Footnote TOPEX/POSEIDON was a joint NASA-French mission.
47
What does SMAP measure?
Soil moisture using both active and passive microwave sensors. ## Footnote SMAP stands for Soil Moisture Active Passive.
48
What is the TRMM/GPM?
A series of NASA missions providing global rainfall data. ## Footnote TRMM stands for Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission.
49
What is normalization in geographic analysis?
The process of transforming raw attribute values to facilitate meaningful comparisons, often by dividing by a common factor like area or population. ## Footnote Normalization helps in comparing data across different scales.
50
What is buffering in geographic analysis?
Creating a polygon around a geographic feature at a specified distance, used to analyze proximity and potential impacts. ## Footnote Buffering helps in understanding the spatial relationships between features.
51
What is distance cost analysis?
Determining the cost or effort required to travel between locations, considering factors like distance, terrain, and barriers #This analysis helps in optimizing routes and understanding accessibility.
52
What is Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW)?
An interpolation method estimating values at unsampled locations based on the weighted average of values at nearby known points. ## Footnote IDW is often used in geographical information systems for spatial analysis.
53
What does Kriging refer to in geostatistics?
A geostatistical interpolation method estimating values at unsampled locations based on the spatial correlation of known values. ## Footnote Kriging is a sophisticated technique that accounts for the spatial arrangement of data points.
54
Define Boolean Algebra.
A system of logical operations using AND, OR, and NOT to refine data selections. ## Footnote Boolean Algebra is fundamental in computer science and digital circuit design.
55
What is the purpose of Time Series Analysis?
Analyzing data over time to detect trends and patterns. ## Footnote Time Series Analysis is commonly used in economics, finance, and environmental studies.
56
What are Comparison Maps?
Maps designed to highlight differences or changes between datasets or over time. ## Footnote Comparison Maps can be useful in visualizing changes such as land use or climate data.
57
What is Set Algebra in data analysis?
Using mathematical operators to perform calculations and manipulations on datasets. ## Footnote Set Algebra is used in various fields including database management and statistics.
58
What does DLG stand for?
Digital Line Graphic. ## Footnote DLG is a vector data format representing various features from USGS topographic maps.
59
What is a TIN?
Triangulated Irregular Network, a vector data model representing a surface as a network of interconnected triangles. ## Footnote TIN is often used for elevation data analysis.
60
Define DEM.
Digital Elevation Model, a raster data model representing elevation data as a grid of pixels. ## Footnote DEMs are crucial for terrain analysis and modeling.
61
What is a Contour Line?
A line on a map connecting points of equal elevation. ## Footnote Contour lines help in visualizing the terrain's shape and slope.
62
What does Contour Interval refer to?
The vertical distance between adjacent contour lines. ## Footnote Contour intervals are important for understanding the steepness of terrain.
63
What is VMAP-0?
Vector Map Level 0, a global digital elevation model product. ## Footnote VMAP-0 provides a base for various mapping applications.
64
What is the NED?
National Elevation Dataset, a seamless elevation dataset covering the US. ## Footnote NED is vital for environmental and planning purposes.
65
What does ETOP02 represent?
A global digital elevation model with a resolution of 2 arc-minutes. ## Footnote ETOP02 is used for global topographic studies.
66
What is GTOPO30?
A global digital elevation model with a resolution of 30 arc-seconds. ## Footnote GTOPO30 is utilized for various geographical analyses.
67
Define Viewshed.
The area visible from a specific point, considering terrain and other obstacles. ## Footnote Viewshed analysis is important in fields like urban planning and environmental studies.
68
What is the Space Shuttle Topography Mission?
A mission mapping Earth's topography using radar interferometry. ## Footnote This mission utilized advanced radar technology to create detailed maps of the Earth's surface.
69
What does NHD stand for?
National Hydrography Dataset ## Footnote A comprehensive dataset of US surface water features.
70
What is the purpose of the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)?
A dataset mapping the location and extent of wetlands in the US. ## Footnote This inventory helps in wetland conservation and management efforts.
71
Define Minimum Mapping Unit (MMU).
The smallest area that can be reliably mapped and distinguished in a dataset. ## Footnote MMU is critical in ensuring data accuracy in geographic information systems.
72
What is STATSGO?
A generalized soil dataset for the US at a scale of 1:250,000. ## Footnote It provides soil information for broad planning purposes.
73
What does FEMA 100-year Floodplain represent?
An area with a 1% chance of being flooded in any given year. ## Footnote This designation helps in flood risk management and insurance planning.
74
What is SSURGO?
A detailed soil survey dataset for the US at a scale of 1:24,000. ## Footnote It offers more specific soil information than STATSGO for local planning.
75
What does NLCD stand for?
National Land Cover Database ## Footnote A dataset mapping land cover types across the US.
76
What is a Reference Map?
A map providing general information about geographic features and locations, such as topographic maps. ## Footnote Reference maps are used for navigation and general orientation.
77
Define Thematic Map.
A map designed to convey a specific theme or topic, using visual techniques to represent data. ## Footnote Thematic maps are useful in analyzing spatial patterns.
78
What does Data Aggregation mean?
Combining data from smaller units into larger units for mapping and analysis. ## Footnote This process is essential for summarizing information and revealing broader trends.
79
What is a Choropleth Map?
A thematic map using different colors or shades to represent data values within predefined areas, like counties or states. ## Footnote Choropleth maps are commonly used in demographic studies.
80
Define Dot Density Map.
A thematic map using dots to represent the density of a phenomenon within an area. ## Footnote These maps visually emphasize the concentration of data points.
81
What is an Isopleth Map?
A thematic map using lines to connect points of equal value, often used for continuous data like temperature or elevation. ## Footnote Isopleth maps help visualize gradients in data.
82
What does a Graduated Circle Map represent?
A thematic map using circles of varying sizes to represent data values at specific points. ## Footnote The size of the circles indicates the magnitude of the data.
83
What is the Equal Interval Classification Method?
A data classification method dividing the data range into equal-sized intervals. ## Footnote This method is straightforward but may not reflect natural data distributions.
84
What is the Natural Breaks Classification Method?
A data classification method grouping data values based on natural breaks or gaps in the data distribution. #This method helps to identify patterns in data distribution.
85
What is quintile?
A data classification method dividing the data into five groups
86
What is a county?
A political subdivision of census blocks,providing a more detailed level of aggregation and mapping
87
What is a census tract?
A small, relatively permanentstatistical subdivision of a county,used by the us census, bureau.
88
Block group
A collection of census blocks,providing a more detailed level of geographic aggregation than census tracts.
89
Block
The smallest geographic unit used by the U.S. Census bureau, generally bounded by streets or other physical features

GIS (2 decks)

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