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GIS Data Representation Raster and Vector Models

The document discusses GIS data models, specifically focusing on Raster and Vector models, highlighting their characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Raster data is ideal for continuous information but can be large and less accurate for discrete features, while Vector data is precise for discrete features but more complex to analyze. The presentation also emphasizes the importance of choosing the right data model based on data type, spatial resolution, software capabilities, and project goals.

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13 views10 pages

GIS Data Representation Raster and Vector Models

The document discusses GIS data models, specifically focusing on Raster and Vector models, highlighting their characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Raster data is ideal for continuous information but can be large and less accurate for discrete features, while Vector data is precise for discrete features but more complex to analyze. The presentation also emphasizes the importance of choosing the right data model based on data type, spatial resolution, software capabilities, and project goals.

Uploaded by

9vjmg759jv
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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GIS Data

Representation: Raster §
Vector Models
This presentation delves into the fundamental concepts of GIS
data models: Raster and VectorA WeEll explore their
characteristics; advantages; limitations; and how to choose
the right data model for your needsA

by Devang Patil
Introduction to GIS Data Models
What are Data Models? Two Key Models

GIS data models define how real-world features are Raster and vector are the two primary data models
represented and stored in a digital format. used in GIS, each with its own strengths and
weaknesses.
Understanding Raster
Data
Raster data represents spatial information as a grid of cells,
each containing a specific value.
Key Characteristics of
Raster Data
1 Grid Structure 2 Cell Values
Data is organized in a Each cell holds a value
grid of cells, each representing a specific
representing a specific attribute, such as
location. elevation or land cover.

3 Spatial Resolution
The size of each cell determines the level of detail and
precision.
Advantages and Limitations of Raster Data
Advantages Limitations

Ideal for continuous data like elevation or Large file sizes, can be computationally
temperature intensive
Easy to analyze and process using spatial Limited accuracy for representing discrete
algorithms features
Understanding Vector
Data
Vector data uses points, lines, and polygons to represent
spatial features, capturing geometry and attributes.
Key Characteristics of Vector Data
Points Lines Polygons
Represent locations with Represent linear features like Represent areas with
specific coordinates, such as roads or rivers, defined by boundaries, like parks or
wells or cities. connected points. lakes, defined by closed lines.
Advantages and Limitations of Vector Data
Advantages Limitations

Highly accurate for representing discrete Less suitable for representing continuous data
features More complex to analyze and process compared
Smaller file sizes, efficient storage and to raster data
processing
Choosing the Right Data Model

Data Type Spatial Resolution Software Project Goals


Continuous data like High-resolution maps
Capabilities Analyze your project
elevation is better often benefit from Consider the software goals and objectives to
represented with raster. vector data. Lower- you're using and its determine the most
Discrete data like roads resolution maps may capabilities for handling appropriate data model.
or buildings is well- use raster data for different data models.
suited for vector. efficiency.
Integrating Raster and
Vector Data
In many GIS applications, raster and vector data are integrated
to create a comprehensive and accurate representation of the
real world.

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