Describe “vector data” in GIS.

Vector data in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is defined by its ability to represent geographic features using discrete geometric shapes: points, lines, and polygons.

Points are used to represent specific locations, such as cities or landmarks. Lines can convey linear features like rivers, roads, or pathways, essentially depicting connections or routes. Polygons provide a means of representing area-based features such as lakes, parks, or political boundaries.

This structure allows for a high level of accuracy and detail in the representation of geographical features, making vector data extremely useful for various applications such as urban planning, transportation networks, and environmental analysis. Furthermore, vector data is associated with attributes that describe these features, allowing users to analyze and manipulate the data based on different criteria.

In contrast, other forms of data mentioned, such as raster data which is represented by pixels in a grid, serve different purposes and have distinct uses in GIS. Raster data is typically better suited for continuous data representation like elevation or temperature, while vector data excels in the depiction of discrete objects and can provide detailed information about their characteristics and relationships.