GIS - Advanced Remote Sensing

1
QUANTUM SERIES
For
B.Tech Students of Third Year
of All Engineering Colleges Affiliated to
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University,
Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow
(Formerly Uttar Pradesh Technical University)
GIS and Advance Remote Sensing

By
Neetendra Sahoo
TM
QUANTUM PAGE PVT. LTD.

Ghaziabad New Delhi
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GIS and Advance Remote Sensing (CE : Sem-5)

1st Edition : 2020-21
Price: Rs. 55/- only
Printed Version : e-Book.

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CONTENTS
KCE–058 : GIS & ADVANCE REMOTE SENSING
UNIT-1 : PHOTOGRAMMETRY (1–1 H to 1–22 H)
Introduction to photogrammetry Principles and types of aerial
photographs, geometry of vertical and aerial photograph, Scale and
Height measurement on single and vertical aerial photograph, Height
measurement based on relief displacement, Fundamentals of
Stereoscopy, fiducial points, parallax measurement using fiducial line.
UNIT-2 : REMOTE SENSING (2–1 H to 2–23 H)

Remote sensing Basic concepts and foundation of Remote Sensing
elements, Data information, Remote sensing data collection, Remote
sensing advantages and Limitations, Remote sensing process.
Electromagnetic spectrum, Energy interaction with atmosphere and
with earth surface features (soil, water, and vegetation) Indian
Satellites and Sensors characteristics, Map and Image false color
composite, introduction to digital data, elements of visual
interpretations techniques.
UNIT-3 : GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) (3–1 H to 3–28 H)

Geographic Information Systems Introduction to GIS, Components
of GIS, Geospatial data: Spatial Data – Attribute Data - Joining
Spatial and Attribute Data, GIS Operations: Spatial Data input-
Attribute Data Management-Data Display-Data Exploration-Data
Analysis. COORDINATE SYSTEMS: Geographic Coordinate
system; Approximation of Earth, Datum: Map Projections; Types
of Map Projections-Map Projection Parameters-Commonly used
Map Projections – Projected Coordinate Systems.
UNIT-4 : VECTOR DATA MODEL (4–1 H to 4–19 H)

Vector data model Representation of simple features- Topology
and its importance: coverage and its data structure, shape file,
data models for composite features. Object Based Vector Data
Model; Classes and their Relationships: The geobased data model:
Geometric representation of Spatial feature and data structure:
Topology rules.
UNIT-5 : RASTER DATA MODEL (5–1 H to 5–18 H)

Raster data model Elements of Raster data model: Types of Raster
data: Raster data structure: Data conversion, Integration of Raster
and Vector data. Data Input: Metadata: Conversion of Existing
data, Creating new data, Remote sensing data, Field data,
Digitizing, Scanning, on screen digitizing, importance of source
map, Data Editing.
SHORT QUESTIONS (SQ–1 H to SQ–15 H)

KCE 058 GIS AND ADVANCE REMOTE SENSING (L-T-P 3-0-0) Credit – 3
Course Outcomes:
After completion of the course student will be able to:
CO-1 Understand the concepts of Photogrametry and compute the heights of objects
CO-2 Understand the principles of aerial and satellite remote sensing, Able to comprehend
the energy interactions with earth surface features, spectral properties of water bodies .
CO-3 Understand the basic concept of GIS and its applications, know different types of data
representation in GIS
CO-4 Understand and Develop models for GIS spatial Analysis and will be able to know
what the questions that GIS can answer are
CO-5 Illustrate spatial and non-spatial data features in GIS and understand the map
projections and coordinates systems
CO-6 Apply knowledge of GIS and understand the integration of Remote Sensing and GIS
Unit 1
Introduction to photogrammetry Principles and types of aerial photographs, geometry of
vertical and aerial photograph, Scale and Height measurement on single and vertical aerial
photograph, Height measurement based on relief displacement, Fundamentals of Stereoscopy,
fiducial points, parallax measurement using fiducial line. [8]
Unit 2
Remote sensing Basic concepts and foundation of Remote Sensing elements, Data
information, Remote sensing data collection, Remote sensing advantages and Limitations,
Remote sensing process. Electromagnetic spectrum, Energy interaction with atmosphere and
with earth surface features (soil, water, and vegetation) Indian Satellites and Sensors
characteristics, Map and Image false color composite, introduction to digital data, elements of
visual interpretations techniques. [8]
Unit 3
Geographic Information Systems Introduction to GIS, Components of GIS, Geospatial data:
Spatial Data – Attribute Data- Joining Spatial and Attribute Data, GIS Operations: Spatial
Data input- Attribute Data Management-Data Display-Data Exploration-Data Analysis.
COORDINATE SYSTEMS: Geographic Coordinate system; Approximation of Earth,
Datum: Map Projections; Types of Map Projections-Map Projection Parameters-Commonly
used Map Projections – Projected Coordinate Systems. [8]
Unit 4
Vector data model Representation of simple features- Topology and its importance: coverage
and its data structure, shape file:, data models for composite features Object Based Vector
Data Model; Classes and their Relationships: The geobased data model: Geometric
representation of Spatial feature and data structure: Topology rules. [8]
Unit 5
Raster data model Elements of Raster data model: Types of Raster data: Raster data structure:
Data conversion, Integration of Raster and Vector data. Data Input: Metadata: Conversion of
Existing data, Creating new data, Remote sensing data, Field data, Digitizing, Scanning, on
screen digitizing, importance of source map, Data Editing. [8]
TEXT BOOKS:
1. Remote Sensing of the environment- An earth resource perspective- 2nd edition- by John
R. Jensen, Pearson Education.
2. Introduction to geographic information system- kang – Tsung Chang, Tata McGraw- Hill
Education Private Limited.
REFERENCES:
1. Concepts & Techniques of GIS by C.P.Lo Albert, K.W. Yonng, Prentice Hall (India)
Publications.
2. Remote Sensing and Geographical Information systems by M.Anji Reddy JNTU
Hyderabad 2001, B.S. Publications.
3. Principals of Geo physical Information System- Peter A Burragh and Rachael A. Mc
Donnell, Oxford Publishers 2004
4. Basics of Remote Sensing and GIS by S. Kumar, laxmi Publications.
GIS and Advance Remote Sensing 1–1 H (CE-Sem-5)
1 Photogrammetry
CONTENTS
Part-1 : Introduction to Photogrammetry ............ 1–2H to 1–6H
Principles and Types of
Aerial Photographs
Part-2 : Geometry of Vertical and ....................... 1–6H to 1–11H

Aerial Photograph, Scale
and Height Measurement
on Single and Vertical
Aerial Photograph
Part-3 : Height Measurement based ................. 1–11H to 1–14H

on Relief Displacement
Part-4 : Fundamental of Stereoscopy, ............. 1–15H to 1–21H

Fiducial Points, Parallax
Measurement using Fiducial Line
Photogrammetry 1–2 H (CE-Sem-5)
PART-1
Introduction to Photogrammetry Principles and
Types of Aerial Photographs.
Questions-Answers
Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions
Que 1.1. Define the photogrammetric survey. What are the types
of photogrammetry ?
Answer
Photogrammetric Survey : It is the science and art of obtaining
accurate measurements by use of photographs, for various purposes
such as the construction of planimetric and topographic maps,
classification of soils, interpretation of geology, acquisition of military
intelligence and the preparation of composite pictures of the ground.
Types : Following are the two types of photogrammetry :
1. Terrestrial Photogrammetry : It is that branch of photogrammetry
wherein photographs are taken from a fixed position on or near the
ground.
2. Aerial Photogrammetry : It is that branch of photogrammetry
wherein the photographs are taken by a camera mounted in an aircraft
flying over the area.
Que 1.2. Explain the principle of photogrammetric survey.
Answer
Principle of Photogrammetric Survey :
1. Principle of photogrammetric survey in its simplest form is very similar
to that of the plane table survey.
2. Only difference is that the most of the work which in plane table survey
is executed in the field, in photogrammetry that is done in office.
3. The principal point of each photograph is used as a fixed station and rays
are drawn to get points of intersections very similar to those used in
plane table.
4. It is suitable for topographical or engineering surveys and also for those
projects demanding higher accuracy.
5. It is unsuitable for dense forest and flat-sands due to the difficulty of

identifying points upon the pair of photographs.
Que 1.3. Mention the different type of aerial photographs and

explain each one of them.
OR
Explain the different types of photographs with diagrams.
Answer
Types : Following are the different types of photographs :
A. Terrestrial Photograph :
1. It is the photograph taken from ground station.
2. The instrument used is photo-theodolite which is a theodolite mounted
on a camera with its axis horizontal or nearly horizontal.
3. The line of collimation of the telescope and the optical axis of the camera
are parallel to each other.
B. Aerial Photograph :
1. These are the photographs taken from overhead position with a camera
board on an aeroplane, an artificial or natural satellite or a planet.
2. It can further be divided depending upon the angle between the axis of
camera and the vertical axis as follows :
i. Vertical Photograph : It is a one, in which the optical axis of the
camera is vertical or nearly vertical. A truly vertical photograph
resembles a map, through a vertical photograph can be rarely obtained.
Photo
plane
Vertical
camera
axis
Fig. 1.3.1. Vertical photograph.
ii. Tilted Photograph : When the optical axis of the camera is

unintentionally inclined to the vertical by not more than 3°, then the
photograph taken is called “tilted photograph” as shown in Fig. 1.3.2.
Photo plane
camera
axis Vertical
Fig. 1.3.2. Tilted photograph.
iii. Oblique Photograph : It is the photograph taken when the optical

axis is intentionally inclined to the vertical at a greater angle. This is
done to obtain a more familiar view of the terrain. Oblique photographs
may further be divided into two categories :
a. Low Oblique Photographs : Photographs which do not show the
horizon.
b. High Oblique Photographs : Photographs which show the
horizon.
Photo plane
Photo plane Horion
Camera axis Vertical Camera axis
Ground surface Ground surface

(a) Low-oblique photograph (b) High-oblique photograph
Fig. 1.3.3.
iv. Convergent Photographs :
a. These are low oblique photographs taken with two cameras exposed
simultaneously at successive exposure stations.
b. The camera axis is tilted at a fixed inclination from the vertical in
the direction of flight, so that forward exposure of the first station
forms a stereopair with backward exposure of the next station.
v. Trimetrogon Photographs : These types of photographs are
combination of vertical and low oblique photographs exposed
simultaneously from the air station with two cameras.
Que 1.4. What is aerial photogrammetry ? Write advantages

and disadvantages of aerial photogrammetry.
Answer
A. Aerial Photogrammetry : Refer Q. 1.1, Page 1–2H, Unit-1.
B. Advantages : Following are the advantages of aerial photogrammetry :
1. Suitable for inaccessible areas.
2. Suitable for mountainous region with less vegetation.
3. Suitable for mapping large areas, faster and economical.
C. Dis advantages : Fo llowing are the disadvantage s of aerial
photogrammetry :
1. Not suitable for dense forests and flat sands due to difficulty of identifying
objects upon the photographs.
2. Not economical for survey of small areas.
Que 1.5. What do you unders tand by the term ‘Aerial

photography’ ? Also write a short note on the factors that influence
aerial photography.
Answer
A. Aerial Photography : Refer Q. 1.1, Page 1–2H, Unit-1.
B. Factors : Following are the factors that influence aerial photography :
1. Atmospheric Conditions : The presence of particles (smoke or dust)
and molecules of gases in the atmosphere tends to reduce contrast
because of scattering, therefore, the best time photography is when
the sky is clear (November-February).
2. Scale : Ratio of f/h (f-focal length of the camera lens and h-flying
height above the mean terrain). Due to variations in flying height, the
scales of different photographs may vary. Scale may also vary because
of the effects of tilt and relief displacements.
3. Camera/Film/Filter Combination : To ensure good image quality,
modern distortion free cameras are used. Depending upon the
requirements different lens/focal length/film/filter combinations can
be used.
4. Flight Direction : Aerial photography is flown in strips to cover the
designated area. It is advisable to keep the number of strips to minimum.
The flight direction of strips is therefore kept along the length of the
area.
5. Time/Season of Photography : Aerial photography should be flown
when the sun’s elevation is 30 degrees above the horizon or three
hours before and after the local noon time.
Que 1.6. Differentiate between ‘Aerial photography’ and ‘Aerial

photogrammetry’.
Answer
S. No. Aerial Photography Aerial Photogrammetry

1. Aerial photography is the art Aerial photogrammetry is the
of taking and processing science of making measurements
photographs. from photographs.
2. The fundamental principle The fundamental principle used
used by photography is line by photogrammetry is
of sight. triangulation.
PART-2
Geometry of Vertical and Aerial Photograph, Scale and height
Measurement on Single and Vertical Aerial Photograph.
Questions-Answers
Que 1.7. Define various basic terms associated with aerial

photography.
Answer
Following are the basic terms associated with aerial photography :
1. Exposure Station (or Air Station) : It is the position of the aircraft
(essentially the optical centre of the camera lens) at the instant of
exposure of the film.
2. Flying Height : It is the elevation of the exposure station above the
datum.
3. Altitude : It is the height of the exposure station above the Earth’s surface.
4. Line of Flight : It is the track along which the aircraft flies.
5. Perspective Center : It is the real or imaginary point at which all the
rays of light converge at or diverge from. Obviously it is the optical
centre of the lens.
6. Principal Point :
i. It is a point on the photo where a perpendicular from the front nodal
point of the camera lens strikes the photographic plane. On photo it is
called ‘photo principal point’ (p). It is considered to be the origin of photo
co-ordinate system.
ii. When this perpendicular is extended downwards, the point of intersection

with the ground is called ground principal point (p).
7. Nadir Point (or Plumb Point) : The point, where the plumb line i.e.,
line of gravity from the optical centre of the camera strikes the
photograph, is called the photo nadir point (v) and where it strikes the
ground, the ground nadir point (V).
8. Principal Plane : The plane passing through O, V and P is called
principal plane. It is the plane constituted by the line of flight and the
vertical.
9. Principal Line : It is the line of intersection of the principal plane with
the photographic plane. Thus it is the line obtained by joining the
principal point and the nadir point on the photograph.
10. Tilt : It is the angle which the optical axis of the camera makes with the
vertical i.e., the angle VOP in the Fig. 1.7.1. It is denoted by t.
Exposure station (O) Horizontal line h
O
t
Tilt (t)
Horizon
Focal length point (h)
t f +Y
t/2
Isocentre (i)
t/2 Principal line (vp)
Direction of flight
–X +X
v p
l
s Photo principal point (p)
Photo nadir point (v )
Swing (s )
–Y Flying height (H)

Plumb
line (OV) H
Principal
plane (OVP)
Camera axis (OP )
Ground surface
North
)
SL
(M
t um
Da
Azimuth of principal
plane ( ) l P Ground principal point (P )
V
Ground nadir point (V)
Fig. 1.7.1. Definitions of technical terms.
11. Isocentre (i) :

i. It is the point on the photograph at which the bisector of the angle of tilt
meets the photographic plane.
ii. It lies midway between v and p on the principal line. vi = ip = f tan t/2
where f is the focal length of the camera lens.
iii. In a truly vertical photograph t = 0°, therefore i, v and p all coincide.
12. Tip : It is the inclination of the camera axis about a horizontal axis
perpendicular to the line of flight.
13. Homologous Points : These are the pair of points representing ground
points and their photo points.
14. Swing : It is the horizontal angle measured clockwise in the plane of the
photograph from the positive direction of Y-axis to the photo nadir
point.
15. Azimuth of the Principal Plane () : It is the horizontal angle
measured in clockwise direction from north meridian to the principal
plane. It is also called “Azimuth of the Photograph”.
16 Horizon Point (h) : It is the point of intersection of principal line (vp)
produced with horizontal line through the exposure station.
17 Air-base : It is the distance between two successive exposures along a
flight line.
Que 1.8. How will you determine the scale of an aerial

photograph ? What do you understand by the terms ‘datum scale’
and ‘average scale’ ?
OR
Derive an expression for the scale of vertical photograph.
Answer
A. Scale of Aerial Photograph :
Distance on photo
1. Scale of a vertical photograph =
Corresponding distance on ground
2. In the case of a map, the scale is uniform for the entire map because a
map is an orthographic projection, whereas in case of a photograph the
scale varies due to variation in elevation of a terrain because a
photograph is a perspective projection.
i. Flat Terrain : The Fig. 1.8.1 shows a flat terrain AB height h above
datum.
ab
Scale, S =
AB
From similar triangles Oap and OAP,
ab / 2 Op
=
AB / 2 OP
ab Op f f
=  
AB OP H  H  h
f
S=
Hh
O
Positive f
a b
p
H'
H
Optical
axis
A B
h P h
Datum Ground surface
A0 P0 B0
Fig. 1.8.1. A vertical photograph taken over flat terrian.
ii. Variable Terrain : Fig. 1.8.2 shows the vertical photograph of a terrain,
in which the elevatio n is not constant. As pe r fo rmula
f
S= , the scale increases with increase in elevation. Consider two
Hh
points A and B, hA and hB above datum respectively.
O
f
P a b
H H–h A
Average
terrain
B
A
hav A0 hB
hA
Datum
Fig. 1.8.2. Vertical photograph taken over variable terrain.
f
SA =
H  hA
f
and, SB =
H  hB
B. Average Scale :
1. For a variable terrain it is often convenient to express average scale of
the photograph. If elevation of points A, B, C, D..... is hA, hB, hC, hD ....
1
then, hav = (h + hB + hC + hD + ....)
n A
f
Sav =
H  hav
2. Average scale of a terrain can also be obtained by determining scale of
different points and taking their average.
1
Sav = (SA + SB + SC + SD + .....)
n
C. Datum Scale (SD) :
1. The datum scale of a vertical photograph is the scale that would be, if all
the ground points were projected downwards on the datum.
ap f
2. From Fig. 1.8.1, SD = 
A0 P0 H
Que 1.9. Discuss the method of determination of ground

coordinates and distance between two points on ground.
OR
Derive an expression for the scale of a vertical photograph. Explain
how the ground coordinates and the distances can be obtained from
a vertical photograph.
Answer
A. Scale of Vertical Photograph : Refer Q. 1.8, Page 1–8H, Unit-1.
B. Co-ordinate and Distances of Vertical Photograph :
1. Let photo co-ordinates of a point be (x, y) and ground co-ordinates of
corresponding point (X, Y) then from scale of a photograph,
x f
S= 
X Hh
where, H = Flying height.
h = Elevation of the point.
Then, X = x Hh  x
f S
2. If there are two points A and B on the ground with elevations hA and hB
then their ground co-ordinates are :
H  hA y A
XA = xA H  hA  x A and YA = yA 
f SA f SA
H  hB x B H  hB yB
XB = x B  and YB = yB 
f SB f SB
3. Distance between two points by co-ordinate geometry,
D= ( X A  X B )2  (YA  YB )2
PART-3
Height Measurement based on Relief Displacement.
Questions-Answers
Que 1.10. Explain relief displacement on a vertical photograph.

Derive an expression for its determination. Also derive an expression
for determining scale of a vertical photograph.
OR
Explain, what is relief displacement and how is it calculated ?
OR
Define relief. Derive an expression for the displacement due to
ground relief.
Answer
A. Relief Displacement :
1. Relief displacement occurs when the point being photographed is not at
an elevation of the mean datum.
2. The distance on a photograph, from the image of any ground point to its
fictitious image projected to a datum plane is the image displacement
caused by topographic relief and is known as relief displacement.
B. Derivation :
1. Fig. 1.10.1 shows a vertical photograph taken from a height H above
datum.
2. The image of ground point A0, whose elevation is h1, is ‘a0’ on the
photograph and that of its projection on the datum plane A1 is a1, thus
aa1 is the relief displacement of point A due to its elevation h1. Similarly
the relief displacement of point A2 is aa2 on the photograph.
3. Let, r0 = Radial distance of ‘a0’ from principal point ‘p’.
r1 = Radial distance of ‘a1’ from principal point ‘p’.
r2 = Radial distance of ‘a2’ from principal point ‘p’.
R = Ground distance A0P0.
4. From similar triangles a1 pO and A1P1O, we get

f r
= 1
H R
fR = r1H ...(1.10.1)
f r
= 0
H  h1 R
fR = r0 (H – h1) ...(1.10.2)
6. From eq. (1.10.1) and eq. (1.10.2), we get
+r1H = r0(H – h1) ...(1.10.3)
r1 H
or r0 = ...(1.10.4)
H  h1
O
f
p
r a
r 1 1 a0 a2
r2 0
p
r1 a1
H– h1 a0
r0 a2
H r2
P2
P0 R
R
h1 A2
h2
P1 R A0
h1
Mean sea level A1
Fig. 1.10.1. Topographic relief displacement.

7. Relief displacement of ground point A0,
d = aa1
d = pa0 – pa1 = r0 – r1
 H   H  rh
= r1   r1 = r1   1  1 1 ...(1.10.5)
 H  h1   H  h1  H  h1
f r
= 2
H  h1  h2 R
fR = r2 (H – h1 – h2) ...(1.10.6)
9. From eq. (1.10.2) and eq. (1.10.6), we get
fR = r0(H – h1) = r2(H – h1 – h2)
H  h1  h2
r0 = r2 ...(1.10.7)
H  h1
10. Relief displacement of point A2,
H  h1  h2
d = r2 – r0 = r2 – r2
H  h1
 H  h1  h2  r2 h2
= r2 1   = ...(1.10.8)
 H  h 1  H  h1
Que 1.11. How do you determine the height of object from relief
displacement ?
Answer
1. If the scale of the photograph is known, the height of any object, such as a
tower TB shown in Fig. 1.11.1 can be determined by following equation :
rh
d= ...(1.11.1)
H
O
b t
d
r
Selected datum
B
Mean sea level
Fig. 1.11.1. Height of a tower from relief displacement.
2. Let h be the height of the tower above its exposure station above the
selected datum passing through the base of the tower.
3. Let t and b be the top and bottom positions of the tower on the photograph.
4. The radial distance r and the relief displacement can very easily be
measured.
5. If the scale S of the photograph is known, the height H can be calculated
from the relation
f
S= ...(1.11.2)
H
6. Knowing H, and measuring d and r, the height h is calculated from
eq. (1.11.1). Thus,
dH
h= ...(1.11.3)
r
where, h is the height of the tower above the selected datum with
reference to which H has been computed.
7. Incidentally, if the elevation of the bottom of the tower is known, the
height of flight above mean sea level can be known.
Que 1.12. The distance from the principal point to an image on a

photograph is 6.44 cm and the elevation of the object above datum is
250 m, what is the relief displacement of the point is datum is 1/10000
and focal length is 20 cm.
Answer
Given : Elevation of the object, h1 = 250 m

Distance between principal point to image on photograph, r1 = 6.44 cm
Scale, S = 1 : 10,000, Focal length, f = 20 cm
To Find : Relief displacement.
1. Scale of photograph is given by,

1 f 20 / 100
S=  
10,000 H H
20
or H= × 10,000 = 2,000 m above datum.
100
r1h1 6.44  250
2. Relief displacement =  = 0.92 cm
H  h1 2000  250
PART-4
Fundamental of Stereoscopy, Fiducial Points, Parallax
Measurement Using Fiducial Line.
Questions-Answers
Que 1.13. Describe the stereoscope with its functions and types.
OR
Describe the mirror stereoscope with neat sketch.
Answer
A. Stereoscope : It is an instrument used for viewing stereopair in
photogrammetric surveying or aerial surveying is called as stereoscope.
B. Function of Stereoscope :
1. A stereoscope is used to accommodate the wide separation of the
individual photograph of the stereopair to the fixed length of the eye
base.
2. It is also used to magnify the depth of perception.
C. Types of Stereoscope :
Following are the types of stereoscope which are generally used into
practice of aerial surveying :
Types of stereoscope
1. Lens 2. Mirror 3. Zoom 4. Scanning mirror 5. Stereoscopic

stereoscope stereoscope stereoscope stereoscope plotting instrument
Fig. 1.13.1.
1. Lens Stereoscope :
i. This type of stereoscope consists of magnifying lens at a place of mirror
for each eye.
ii. In case of lens stereoscope, the two lenses are mounted on an assembly
in such way that distance between them is equal to the average eye base
or interpupillary distance of the human eye. However minor adjustment
is done for the separation of these two lenses according to the user.
iii. The distance between the nodal points of the lens and the photograph is
always proportionate to the focal length of the lens being used in the
stereoscope.
iv. Lens stereoscope causes more strain to the eyes but lens stereoscope is
small in size and compact and hence can be conveniently handled and
used in the field of aerial survey.
v. Since lenses have the magnifying effect, the heights of an object can be
seen larger than the actual height of an object.
2. Mirror Stereoscope :
i. This type of stereoscope consists of four mirrors, two mirror say m1 and
m2 are small eye piece mirror and other two say M1 and M2 are larger
wing mirror as shown in Fig.1.13.2.
ii. These four mirrors are situated at an orientation of 45° with the plane of
the photographs.
Retina Retina
Eye Eye
Mirror M2 Mirror M1
Mirror Mirror
m2 m 1
45°  45°
Q
b a a b
45° 45°
Photo 1 Photo 2
P
Stereoscopic model
Fig. 1.13.2. Optical diagram of mirror stereoscope.
iii. The photographs to be viewed are placed at a certain distance from the
wing mirror M1 and M2 and light reaches to the eyes exactly as it would
come from the actual terrain.
iv. Mirror stereoscope completely separate the photographs for viewing
and the whole overlap area can be seen stereoscopically without any slip
of photographs, is the greatest advantages of mirror stereoscope.
v. It is not handy and portable due to its large size.
Que 1.14. Write a short note on fiducial points.

Answer
Fiducial Points or Mark :
1. Fiducial mark is a set of marks located in the corners or edge-centers, or
both, of an aerial photographic image.
2. These marks are exposed within the camera onto the original film and
are used to define the frame of reference for spatial measurements on
aerial photographs.
3. Opposite fiducial marks connected, intersect at approximately the image
center or principal point of the aerial photograph.
4. The principal point is the geometric center of the photograph. Typical
positions of fiducial marks in an aerial photo are shown in Fig. 1.14.1.
Fig 1.14.1. Illustration of the location of the fiducial marks and

principal point for an aerial photo image. The intersection of the
dotted line indicates the principle point.
Que 1.15. Describe the construction and working of a parallax

bar with the help of a neat sketch.
OR
Describe the parallax bar with neat sketch.
Answer
A. Construction of Parallax Bar :
1. It is used to measure the parallax difference between two points. The
difference in parallax of two points is called parallax difference.
Micrometer
(0.01 mm)
Fixed L Movable
Fig. 1.15.1. Parallax bar.
2. Parallax is the displacement in the image of an object caused by a

shift in the point of observation i.e., successive exposures during a
flight. It is also called stereoscopic parallax or x-parallax.
3. The instrument as shown in Fig. 1.15.1 consists of two plates of

transparent materials attached to a bar.
4. The left plate is fixed and the right one movable with the help of a
micrometer screw.
5. The total movement possible being 25 mm, which can be read nearest to
0.01 mm. Each plot contains a tiny dot in the centre.
6. The stereopair is viewed under a stereoscope and the parallax bar is
placed on the photographs.
B. Working :
1. Let it be required to measure the parallax difference between two points
A and C whose image appear on both the photographs at (a, c) and (a, c)
respectively.
2. The left mark of the parallax bar is placed over a and the parallax bar is
so oriented that it is parallel to the flight line.
3. Move the right mark and make the fused dot to touch the ground point.
Take the micrometer reading.
4. Shift the bar bodily, put the left mark over the image c and move the
right mark so that the fused marks again rests on the ground.
5. Note the micrometer reading. The difference between the two readings
gives the value p.
6. Thus in Fig. 1.15.2 when point a is fused, the separation of the marks is
lesser and the point is higher as is clear from the two intersecting rays
OaA and OaA in the lower part of the diagram.
7. Similarly, when c is fused, the separation of the marks is increased, and
the point of lower as is clear from the two intersecting rays OcC and
OcC.
8. The difference in elevation is then found by,
( H  h)2 p
H =
( H  h)p  bm H
where, bm is the mean principal base.

k k k k
a a
c c
O O
k k k
c a k a c
H
A
H
K C h K
Datum
Fig. 1.15.2. Principle of a parallax bar.
Que 1.16. Derive the parallax equation for determining the

evaluation of a point.
OR
Establish parallel equation for determining elevation of a point
from a stereopair.
Answer
1. Fig. 1.16.1 shows the two images of a point A as a when the aircraft is at
position O1 and as a when the aircraft is at O2.
2. There is obviously a shift in the image because the image a is to the right
of principal point whereas the image a is to the left of principal point.
3. Co-ordinates of the point image a are (x a, ya) and that of a are
(xa, ya), while that of ground point A these are (XA, YA).
4. From similar triangles O1oay and O1Ao Ay, we get
YA y
or = a
H  hA f
ya
YA = (H – hA) ...(1.16.1)
f
5. From the similar triangles O1oax and O1AoAx, yield
XA x
= a
H  hA f
xa
or XA = (H – hA) ...(1.16.2)
f
6. Also, from similar triangles O2oax and O2AoAx,
B XA  xa
=
H  hA f
xa
or XA = B + (H – hA) ...(1.16.3)
f
7. From eq. (1.16.2) and (1.16.3), we get
Bf
hA = H – ...(1.16.4)
xa  x ' a
8. Substituting Pa for x – xa into eq. (1.16.4), we get
Bf
hA = H – ...(1.16.5)
Pa
where, Pa = Parallax of the point A.

9. Now substituting eq. (1.16.5) into eq. (1.16.2) and eq. (1.16.1) and
reducing, we get
xa
XA = B ...(1.16.6)
Pa
ya
YA = B ...(1.16.7)
Pa
Eq. (1.16.5), eq. (1.16.6) and eq. (1.16.7) are commonly called parallax
equations.
B
O1 O2
f xa x'a(–)
ay a a'
ya y'a a'y
o ax a'x o'
Y
Ay A
hA
Ao A'o
Ax YA
P Datum
X
XA B – XA
Fig. 1.16.1. Parallax relationship.
VERY IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Following questions are very important. These questions
may be asked in your SESSIONALS as well as
UNIVERSITY EXAMINATION.
Q. 1. Define the photogrammetric survey. What are the types of

photogrammetry ?
Ans. Refer Q. 1.1, Unit-1.
Q. 2. Explain the principle of photogrammetric survey.
Q. 3. What is aerial photogrammetry ? Write advantages and

disadvantages of aerial photogrammetry.
Q. 4. Define various bas ic terms ass ociated with aerial

photography.
Q. 5. Explain relief displacement on a vertical photograph. Derive

an expression for its determination. Also derive an
expression for determining scale of a vertical photograph.
Q. 6. The distance from the principal point to an image on a

photograph is 6.44 cm and the elevation of the object above
datum is 250 m, what is the relief displacement of the point
is datum is 1/10000 and focal length is 20 cm.
Q. 7. Describe the construction and working of a parallax bar

with the help of a neat sketch.

2
UNIT
Remote Sensing
CONTENTS
Part-1 : Remote Sensing basic / Remote ............... 2–2H to 2–8H
Sensing Process
Concept and Foundation of
Remote sensing Elements,
Data Information, Remote
Sensing Data Collection,
Remote Sensing Advantages
and Limitations
Part-2 : Electromagnetic Spectrum, ................... 2–8H to 2–14H

Energy Interaction with
Atmosphere and with Earth
Surface Features
(Soil, Water and Vegetation)
Part-3 : Indian Satellites and Sensors .............. 2–14H to 2–22H

Characteristics, Map and
Image False Colour Composite,
Introduction to Digital Data,
Elements of Visual
Interpretations Techniques
Remote Sensing 2–2 H (CE-Sem-5)
PART-1
Remote Sensing basic/Remote Sensing Process, Concept and
Foundation of Remote sensing Elements, Data Information,
Remote Sensing Data Collection, Remote
Sensing Advantages and Limitations.
Questions-Answers
Que 2.1. Define the remote sensing. What are the types of remote
sensing ?
Answer
A. Remote Sensing : Remote sensing is the science and art of obtaining
information about an object, area or phenomena, through the analysis
of data, acquired by a device, that is not in contact with the object, area
or phenomena under investigation.
B. Types : Following are the types of remote sensing :
1. Passive Remote Sensing :
i. In the case of passive remote sensing, source of energy is naturally
available such as the sun.
ii. Passive sensors can only be used to detect energy when the naturally
occurring energy is available.
iii. For all reflected energy, this can only take place during the time when
the sun is illuminating the Earth.
iv. There is no reflected energy available from the sun at night.
v. Energy that is naturally emitted (such as thermal infrared) can be
detected day or night, as long as the amount of energy is large enough
to be recorded.
2. Active Remote Sensing :
i. In the case of active remote sensing, energy is generated and sent from
remote sensing platform towards the targets.
ii. The sensor emits radiation which is directed toward the target to be
investigated.
iii. The radiation reflected from that target is detected and measured by the
sensor.
iv. Advantages for active sensors include the ability to obtain measurements
anytime, regardless of the time of day or season.
v. Active sensors can be used for examining, wavelengths that are not
sufficiently provided by the sun, such as microwaves, or to better control
the way a target is illuminated. However, active systems require the
generation of a fairly large amount of energy to adequately illuminate
targets.
vi. Some examples of active sensors are a laser fluorosensor and synthetic
aperture radar (SAR).
Que 2.2. What are the essential elements of remote sensing
system ?
OR
Explain the general process involved in electromagnetic remote
sensing.
Answer
A. Remote Sensing Process :

A remote sensing imaging system may be considered to be comprised of
following elements as shown in Fig. 2.2.1.
Sun (Energy source)
Passive sensor Active sensor
Reflection
Data
transmission
Reflection Data
Electromagnetic Artificial reception
radiation radiation Processing
station
Targets (Processing,
analysis and
interpretation)
Fig. 2.2.1. Electromagnetic remote sensing process.
1. Energy Source or Illumination : An energy source that provides
illumination or electromagnetic energy to the object of interest.
2. Radiation and the Atmosphere :
i. As the energy propagates from the source to the object, it will come in
contact with the atmosphere it passes, and will interact with the
atmosphere.
ii. The interaction will again take place while travelling back from object
to the sensor.
iii. The atmospheric effects are caused through the mechanism of
scattering and absorption.
3. Interaction with Earth Surface Features :
i. The energy will interact with the object depending upon the properties
of the object and the radiation.
ii. The effects of the interaction of the incident energy with earth surface
features may cause the energy to be reflected, transmitted, scattered,
absorbed, and emitted.
4. Recording of Energy by the Sensor :
i. The scattered or emitted energy from the object is received, collected
and recorded by the sensor.
ii. These are mounted on platforms, which are at a considerable height
from the earth surface.
iii. The sensors may be passive or active.
5. Processing : The energy recorded by the sensor is transmitted in
electronic form to a receiving and processing station where the data is
processed into an image.
6. Interpretation and Analysis :
i. The processed image is interpreted visually and/ or digitally or
electronically to extract information about the object which was
illuminated.
ii. The information about the object extracted from the image helps to
understand it better, reveal some new information, or assist in solving
some new problem.
Que 2.3. Differentiate between active and passive remote sensing

systems, under what condition each is preferable ?
Answer
Difference between Active and Passive Remote Sensing System :
S. No. Active Remote Passive Remote
Sensing System Sensing System
1. A syste m which utilize s A system that uses an existing
manmade sources of energy for source of energy (e.g. sun ray)
data collection is called an active is called passive system.
system.
2. In this, syste m waves are It simple emitted and reflected
propagated near the sensor and radiation from ground surface
are bounced on the earth’s when the e nergy source is
surface to be recorded on their independent of the recording
return. instrument.
3. In this syste m image o f In this syste m witho ut
landscapes, derived from SLR illumination from the sun, no
o r SLAR re se mble ae rial photograph can be taken with
photographs with low angle a camera.
solar illumination.
Que 2.4. Explain the methodologies of remote sensing data

analysis.
Answer
1. Remote sensing is acquiring information about an object/phenomenon
without coming in physical contact of it. Thus aerial photography is
also remote sensing.
2. Aerial photographs are analyzed by finding co-ordinates of various
features/ phenomenon, and their interpretation.
3. Stereopair photographs provide a better and three dimensional view
of the area therefore keep in interpretation role of interpreter becomes
vital.
4. In satellite images interaction of electromagnetic energy with matter
(reflection, transmission, absorption, scattering) bring in changes in
characteristics of incident energy.
5. Reflection is utmost important in these. These changes are recorded in
satellite images.
6. The images received from satellites need to be corrected for atmospheric
absorption and scattering.
7. Satellite images are analyzed based on spectral reflectance curves of
various features/phenomenon available to arrive at what object/
phenomenon exists at any location.
Que 2.5. Describe the methods of collection of data.
Answer
A. Data Collection : The remote sensing image data is collected by
aircraft, the spacecraft platforms, depending upon the sensors and the
type of platforms (position of the camera).
B. Type of Methods for Collection of Data :
1. Photographic Method : Using camera and films (which are of various
types).
2. Non-Photographic Method (Numerical): Using mechanical and
electronic scanners.
i. Most of the remote sensing data are in digital format. Let us observe
the steps used to generate the image.
a. 1st Step : The detectors of the satellite detect the reflected energy or
emitted energy from the earth surface.
b. 2nd Step : The sensor system converts the reflected or emitted energy
into analog electrical signal and convert it into the digital data.
ii. Incase of aircraft platform, the data arrives with the aircraft itself. In
case of space-craft the data are tele-metered to the receiving stations.
As already mentioned the data generated by various sensors and

through different plant forms are used by the people in-different fields,
like, geology, agriculture, environment, regional planning etc.
iii. With the introduction of land sat satellite the remote sensing techniques
have changed very drastically. Due to advanced techniques the remote
sensing has become an important tool to make the up-to-date study of
the surface of the Earth.
Que 2.6. Explain with the help of a neat sketch an idealized remote
sensing system.
Answer
The ideal remote sensing system comprises of the following :
1. A Uniform EM Energy Source : It should provide energy of all
wavelengths with uniform intensity at known high level of output
irrespective of time and place.
2. A Non-interfering Atmosphere : EM energy should propagate
through the atmosphere without loss on its way to or back from the
target so that the energy does not get modified in the atmosphere.
Ideally, it should hold irrespective of wavelength, time, place and
sensing altitude.
3. A Series of Unique Energy (Matter Interactions at the Earth’s
Surface) : These interactions generate reflected and emitted signals
that are selective with respect to wavelength, invariant and unique to
each and every earth surface features type and sub-type of interest.
4. A Super Sensor :
i. The sensor (air borne or space borne) should be highly sensitive to all
wavelengths and yield spatially detailed data on the absolute brightness
(radiance) of the target as a function of wavelength.
ii. The super sensor would be simple, reliable, require virtually no power
or space and be accurate and economical to operate.
5. A Real Time Data Handling System : The return signal from the
target reaching a sensor is recorded and processed in real time (nearly
instantaneously) by the data recorder. The data is then processed into
a format useful for interpretation.
6. Multiple Data Users :
i. These people would have knowledge of great depth both of their
respective disciplines and of remote sensing data acquisition and
analysis techniques.
ii. The same set of data would become various forms of information for
different users.
7. Linear Sensor : A sensor which responds linearly to EM energy of all
wavelengths.
Uniform energy source

Intensity
Intensity
Wavelength Real time
Wavelength
Energy propagation
(without loss)
Data
Reflected energy
handling
(without loss)
Emitted energy
(without loss)
Delighted user
Scattered Absorbed Transmitted

energy energy energy
Fig. 2.6.1. Idealized remote sensing system.
Que 2.7. How real remote sensing system differ from the ideal
requirement ?
Answer
S. No. Aspect Ideal Remote Real Remote
Sensing System Sensing System
1. Energy source It has uniform energy Energy varies with time,
source, irrespective of place and objects in ways
time and place. that cannot be fully
predicted.
2. Atmosphere It has non-interfering It varies according to
atmosphere that would latitude, season, time of
ne ithe r abso rb no r day, local weather etc.
scatter electromagnetic
energy.
3. Spectral Each object would have In practical, these may
response a unique and known change and canno t
spectral response every always be distinguished.
where on earth surface.
Sensing system that N o e xisting se nsing
4. Sensing wo uld be highly system can operate in all
system sensitive through all wavelength of interest.
wavelength of interest.
Que 2.8. Discuss the advantages and limitations of remote

sensing.
Answer
A. Advantages of Remote Sensing : Following are the advantages of
remote sensing :
1. It gives a synoptic overview of the Earth’s surface.
2. The data generated by remote sensing technique, is multi-spectral and
have repetitive coverage.
3. It can collect the images and explain the intensity of the disaster and it
aerial expansion.
4. This technique can help to collect the information in a little period of
time.
5. The data generated by it can be used by multi-disciplines e.g., land use
planning, forest development, geological surveys, urban planning,
disaster management etc.
B. Limitations of Remote Sensing Techniques : Following are the
limitations of remote sensing :
1. The aerial photographs and the satellite images do not have the facilities
to correlate an aerial photograph with the ground.
2. It needs a skilled person to collect, to analyse and to map the data.
3. It also includes data processing to extract information for the direct
input to Geographic Information System (GIS).
PART-2
Electromagnetic Spectrum, Energy Interaction with Atmosphere
and with Earth Surface Features (Soil, Water and Vegetation).
Questions-Answers
Que 2.9. What do you understand by electromagnetic spectrum ?

Answer
A. Electromagnetic Spectrum :
1. Visible light is the most obvious manifestation of EM radiation, other
forms also exist.
2. EM radiation can be produced at a range of wavelengths and can be
categorized according to its position into discrete region which is
generally referred to electromagnetic spectrum.
3. Thus the electromagnetic spectrum is the continuum of energy that
ranges from meters to nano-meters in wavelength travels at the speed
of light and propagates through a vacuum like the outer space.
4. All matter radiates a range of electromagnetic energy, with the peak
intensity shifting toward progressively shorter wavelength at an
increasing temperature of the matter.
m
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
Green
Blue
Red
UV Near - Infrared
Wavelength Visible Wavelength

m 10 –6 10–5 10–4 10–3 10 –2 10–1 1 101 10 2 103 10 4 105 106 107 108 10 9 m
Co - X- U l V i M i Th Mi Te
sm Ra t ra s i b d - e r
ic y ray v i o l e IR m a
cro
wa a n le v is
ra y s s le t l IR ve d r ion
s (U ad
V) io
Fig. 2.9.1. Electromagnetic spectrum.
Que 2.10. Explain various interactions of incident EM energy

with the atmosphere and Earth’s surface.
Answer
A Energy Interaction with Atmosphere : The atmospheric effects
are principally caused through the mechanism of atmospheric scattering
and absorption.
1. Scattering :
i. Atmospheric scattering is the unpredictable diffusion of radiation
caused by the molecules of the gases, dust and smoke in the atmosphere.
ii. Scattering is basically classified as selective and non-selective, depending
upon the size of particles with which the electromagnetic radiation
interacts.
2. Absorption :
i. A part of electromagnetic radiation is absorbed by the molecules of
ozone, carbon dioxide and water vapours.
ii. The absorption of radiation occurs in specific wavelength intervals

called absorption band and governs the regions of the spectrum to be
used in remote sensing.
iii. Wavelengths shorter than 0.3 µm are completely absorbed by the ozone
layer in the upper atmosphere which allows life on earth, a prolonged
exposure to the intense energy of these wavelengths destroys living
tissue.
iv. The aerosol-sized particles of liquid water in clouds absorb and scatter
electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths less than about 0.3 µm.
v. Only radiations of microwave and longer wavelengths are capable of
penetrating clouds without being scattered, reflected, or absorbed.
B. Energy Interaction with Earth Surface :
1. EM energy that strikes or encounters matter (object) is called incident
radiation.
2. The EM radiation striking the surface may be (i) Reflected/Scattered,
(ii) Absorbed, and/or (iii) Transmitted.
3. These processes are not mutually exclusive — EM radiations may be
partially absorbed. Which processes actually occur depends on the
following factors : (i) Wavelength of radiation, (ii) Angle of incidence,
(iii) Surface roughness, and (iv) Condition and composition of surface
material.
E I ER
EA ET
Fig. 2.10.1. Interaction mechanism.

where, EI = Incident EM energy.
ER = Reflected EM energy.
EA = Absorbed EM energy.
ET = Transmitted EM energy.
4. Interaction with matter can change the following properties of incident
radiation :
i. Intensity.
ii. Direction.
iii. Wavelength.
iv. Polarization.
v. Phase.
Que 2.11. Describe the EMR interaction with water, soil and
vegetation.
OR
Discuss on the spectral reflectance characteristics of water and
vegetation in spectral band.
Answer
The EMR interaction with vegetation, soil and water is as follows :
A. Reflectance for Water :
1. Water has low reflectance at the most 10 % while vegetation may reflect
up to 50 % and soil 30 – 40 %.
2. Water reflects in the visible and near IR range. Beyond 1.2 µm all
energy is absorbed.
3. Turbid (silt laden) water has high reflectance.
4. Water containing plants with chlorophyll have peak reflectance in green
wavelength.
5. Longer wave lengths of visible and near IR radiation is absorbed by
water than shorter wavelengths therefore due to reflection of shorter
wavelengths, water looks blue or blue green if viewed in visible band
and darker if viewed in IR wavelengths due to no reflection.
Reflectance (%)
20
10 c
b
a
0
400 800 1200 1600 2000 2400
Wavelength ( m)
Fig. 2.11.1. Spectral reflectance curve of water.
6. Factors affecting variability of reflectance are depth of water, materials
within water and surface roughness of water.
B. Reflectance for Soils : Factors affecting reflectance in soils are (1)
moisture content, (2) particle size, (3) organic matter content, and (4)
iron oxide content.
1. Moisture Content :
i. Soils have different proportions of sand, silt and clay (particle size 0.05 to
2.0 mm , 0.002 to 0.005 mm respectively). Large numbers of particles
are present in clay compared to sand.
ii. When moisture is there in clay, each particle will be covered by a very
thin layer of water; millions of such particles will hold a large amount of
water. Thus particle size and moisture holding capacity of the soils are
inter-related.
iii. Fig. 2.11.2 shows typical reflectance curves of study soils with different
levels of moisture content. It shows that there are no absorption bands
for dry sandy soils.
iv. Moist soils have less reflectance than dry soils (reflectance decreases
with presence of water).
60
0–4%
50
Reflectance (%)
40
30
5 – 12%
20
22 – 23%
10
0.5
0.9 1.3 1.7 2.1 2.5 2.7
Wavelength ( m)
Fig. 2.11.2. Reflectance curves for a sandy soil at different levels.
2. Particle Size :
i. If particle size decreases, soil surface becomes smoother; more of the
smoother energy is reflected.
ii. As particle size increases from 0.22 to 2.6 mm increase in absorption is 14 %.
3. Organic Matter :
i. It is an indication of amount and form of nitrogen in the soil organic
content varies from 0.5 to 5 %.
ii. A soil with 5 % organic matter appears dark brown or black in colour
and with lower organic content light brown or light grey.
iii. Though this colour depiction with organic matter content changes
with climatic and drainage conditions of the soil, which should also be
considered.
4. Iron Oxide Content :
i. It can cause significant decrease in reflectance in the visible spectrum.
ii. Fig. 2.11.3 shows an excellent inverse relationship between reflectance
% and iron oxide in visible region (0.5 to 0.64 µm).
70 70
Iron removed
60 60
Reflectance (%)
Reflectance (%)
50 50 Organic
Matter
40 40 removed
30 30
20 20
10 10
0 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 1.0 0.5
1.5 2.0 2.5
iron oxide 0.5 to 0.64  m Wavelength ( m)
(a) Reflectance of iron oxide (b) Influence of iron oxide and organic.
Fig. 2.11.3.
iii. Fig. 2.11.3 shows that removal of iron oxide causes a marked increase
in reflectance from 0.5 to 1.1 µm and reflectance is insignificant beyond
1.1 µm.
iv. Removal of organic matter causes a similar marked increase in
reflectance over the same wavelengths.
v. In general there is an increasing level of reflectance of dry soils with
increase in wavelength.
C. Reflection for Vegetation :
1. Spectral reflectance curve of vegetation is distinctive.
2. Reflectance is low in blue and red regions of visible spectrum due to
two chlorophyll absorption bands centered at 0.4 and 0.65 µm with
reflectance peak at 0.5 µm. Chlorophyll absorbs radiation in red and
blue wavelengths by reflection.
3. In near infrared region the reflectance is much increased beyond
0.7 µm to 1.3 µm wavelength region and is of the order of 40 – 50 %
(absorption 5 %) with reflectance peaks in between.
4. The reflectance from multi-leaf layers is high compared to single leaf
layer. With decrease in moisture content of the leaf, the reflectance
increases.
5. In middle IR portion, there are water absorption bands at 1.4, 1.9 and
2.7 µm with reflectance peaks at 1.6 and 2.2 µm.
60 Chlorophyll
50 absorption bands Water absorption
Reflectance (%)
bands
40
30
20
10
0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8
Visible
NIR Middle IR
Wavelength ( )
Fig. 2.11.4. Spectral reflectance curve of green vegetation.
6. Thus distinct spectral characteristics of green vegetation are :

i. There are distinct differences in the reflectance amongst visible, near
IR and middle IR regions.
ii. In the visible portion pigmentation of leaves is the dominant absorbent.
iii. The internal leaf structure controls the reflectance in the near infrared
where half is reflected and half transmitted.
iv. In the middle infrared, the total moisture content in the vegetation
controls the reflectance where much of the incident energy is absorbed
by the leaves. Green wavelengths leaves appear greenest to us in the
summer when chlorophyll content is at its maximum.
v. In autumn, there is less chlorophyll in the leaves so there is less absorption
and proportionality more reflection of red wavelengths making the leaves
appear red or yellow.
PART-3
Indian Satellites and Sensors Characteristics, Map and
Image False Color Composite, Introduction to Digital Data,
Elements of Visual Interpretations Techniques.
Questions-Answers
Que 2.12. Write characteristics of any one satellite with its sensor,
band, swath, resolution, altitude and repeativity.
Answer
A. IRS P6/Resourcesat-1 and Resourcesat-2 :
1. The IRS (Indian Remote Sensing) satellites form a large family of Earth
observation satellites operated by the Indian space agency.
2. IRS P6/Resourcesat-1 and Resourcesat-2 ensure continuity of medium
and high resolution data supply provided by the twin satellites IRS-1C
and IRS-1D. These two, launched in 1995 and 1997 respectively, have
completed their missions after more than 10 years of service.
3. Like their predecessors, Resourcesat satellites carry a LISS-III sensor
as well as a wide field AWiFS sensor, but the high resolution (5.8 m)
LISS-4 sensor replaces the panchromatic sensor.
4. The high resolution data are useful for applications such as urban
planning and mapping, while the average resolution is used for vegetation
discrimination, land mapping, and natural resources management.
i. Altitude : 816-818 km.
ii. Inclination : 98.6 degrees.
iii. Orbit: Sun-synchronous polar.
iv. Orbit Period (Repeativity) : 101 minutes.
v. Revisit Time : 5 days.
vi. Swath Width : 23.9 km – 70.3 km (LISS-IV) ; 140 km (LISS-III); 740 km
(AWiFS).
vii. Satellites : IRS-P6/Resourcesat-1 (17/10/2003 – operational)
Resourcesat-2 (20/04/2011– operational).
B. LISS-III Sensor :
1. The LISS-III (Linear Imaging Self Scanning Sensor) sensor is an optical
sensor working in four spectral bands (green, red, near infrared and
short wave infrared). It covers a 141 km-wide swath with a resolution of
23 metres in all spectral bands.
Band Spectral Band Resolution

2 0.52 - 0.59 µm 23 × 23 m
3 0.62 - 0.68 µm 23 × 23 m
4 0.77 - 0.86 µm 23 × 23 m
5 1.55 - 1.70 µm 23 × 23 m
C. LISS-IV Sensor :
1. LISS-IV can work either in panchromatic or in multispectral mode with
the same bands as LISS-III (except SWIR). However, the resolution is
much better (5.8 m).
2. For Resourcesat-1, the swath width varies from 23.9 km in multispectral
mode to 70.3 km in panchromatic mode.
3. For Resourcesat-2, the multispectral swath is enhanced to 70 km. The
linear array sensor can be steered up to 26 degrees across-track, enabling
stereoscopic imaging.
Mode Spectral Band Resolution

Panchromatic 0.50 - 0.75 µm 5.8 × 5.8 m
Mode Band Spectral Band Resolution

Multispectral 2 0.52 - 0.59 µm 5.8 × 5.8 m
3 0.62 - 0.68 µm 5.8 × 5.8 m
4 0.77 - 0.86 µm 5.8 × 5.8 m
D. AWiFS Sensor :
AWiFS (Advanced Wide Field Sensor) is an optical sensor with
intermediate spatial resolution.
Band Spectral Band Resolution

1 0.52 - 0.59 µm 56 × 56 m
2 0.62 - 0.68 µm 56 × 56 m
3 0.77 - 0.86 µm 56 × 56 m
4 1.55 - 1.70 µm 56 × 56 m
Que 2.13. Describe the false color composite of map and image.
Answer
False Color Composite (FCC) :
1. The remote-sensing images of a spectral band are on grey scale. However,
it is more convenient to interpret various features on a colour image.
2. In case, the images generated by remote-sensing measurements in blue

(0.4-0.5 m), green (0.5-0.6 m) and red (0.6-0.7 m) bands are combined
by superposing the transmission through blue, green, and red filters
respectively, the resultant print/transparency is known as True Colour
Composite.
3. In other words, for a true colour composite, an image obtained in blue,
green and red spectral regions must be assigned blue, green and red
colours to the image.
4. However, while displaying the different bands of a multispectral data
set, images obtained in different bands are displayed in different colours,
other than that of their own bands; the color composites obtained so are
known as False Colour Composites (FCC).
5. By assigning colours complementary to the observation band, one could
improve the visual perception and this is achieved in standard FCC by
assigning blue, green and red colour to observations in green
(0.52-0.59 m), red (0.62-0.68 m) and near infrared (0.77-0.86 m)
spectral bands respectively of IRS LISS sensors.
6. The vegetation normally reflects predominantly in near-IR region as
compared to the green or red spectral band. Hence, vegetation appears
red in standard FCC due to assignment of infrared band to red colour.
7. Agricultural land and forest would appear in pink to deep red depending
on leaf greenness (as a green band has been assigned to the blue colour,
the blue-red composition will lead to a pink colour.
Que 2.14. Write a short note on digital image data.
Answer
1. The digital image is made-up of discrete picture elements (pixel), each

one of it has a digital number (DN) which is generated by the Electro-
optical scanners of the satellite e.g., IRS, LANDSAT, SPOT etc.
2. In a digital image the data is arranged in a matrix of a number of pixels
in a Line or Rows (i) and Columns (j). Each one of the pixel has a digital
number it is also known as the brightness value and is located in x, y
coordinate system.
3. A pixel can be defined as, “It a two dimensional picture element, which
is the smallest non-divisible element of a digital image.”
Processing of the Image :
1. The data set can be of multispectral bands and as mentioned above, each
one of the pixel has a digital number or has the brightness value
(Refer the Fig. 2.14.1), from each of these multispectral bands.
2. The digital number represents the variation in the intensity of energy

which has been emitted, from the different features of the earth surface.
3. These digital numbers or the brightness values, start from 0 (zero) and
goes upto a higher value on a grey scale e.g. In IRS series (7 bits data),
these digital numbers vary from 0 to 127.
4. It is very simple to understand these values and their meanings e.g.
lower the brightness value in the grey scale, lower the radiant energy
emitted from that part of ground.
5. It varies between white represented by 127 digital or brightness value
and Black represented by 0 digital or brightness value. (It means no
energy has been emitted from that part of the ground, so the brightness
is 0). It is in 7 bit data.
1 2 3 4 5
1 11 13 15 20 21
2 13 15 17 21 22
Line or
Rows (i) 3 Band (k)
17 18 19 22 23
4
18 19 20 23 24
5
19 20 22 24 25
Y-axis
X-axis
Fig. 2.14.1. A Digital Image located

in x, y coordinate system.
6. In the raw image data, it possesses some distortions (known as noises),

which create difficulties in demarcation of the features. To correct the
problem of distortions, several image processing operations are required.
7. As the figure is represented by numbers, this image can be statistically

processed by, (i) image addition, (ii) subtraction, (iii) multiplication and
(iv) division, but this will not be possible in the hard copy representation
of a satellite image.
8. So, the digital image is put in a computer and then through the different
complex computer programmes (using equations), the image is computed
statistically for each pixel and stores the output of the computation, as a
new digital dataset.
9. Finally, this digital dataset is displayed in a pictorial form as a map or if
required, is again processed through the computer.
10. Among all the image interpretation of elements digital image processing,
only multispectral tone colours are used for interpretation.
Que 2.15. What are the elements of visual interpretations

techniques ?
Answer
Elements of Visual Interpretation Technique :
Following are the elements of visual interpretation technique :
1. Location : There are two primary methods to obtain a precise location
in the form of co-ordinates :
i. Survey in the field by using traditional surveying techniques or global
positioning system instruments.
ii. Collect remotely sensed data of the object, rectify the image and then
extract the desired coordinate information.
2. Size :
i. The size of an object is one of the most distinguishing characteristics and
one of the more important elements of interpretation.
ii. Most commonly, length, width and perimeter are measured. To be able
to do this successfully, it is necessary to know the scale of the photo.
iii. Measuring the size of an unknown object allows the interpreter to rule
out possible alternatives. It has proved to be helpful to measure the size
of a few well-known objects to give a comparison to the unknown-
object.
iv. For example, field dimensions of major sports like soccer, football, and
baseball are standard throughout the world. If objects like this are visible
in the image, it is possible to determine the size of the unknown object
by simply comparing the two.
3. Shape :
i. There are an infinite number of uniquely shaped natural and man-
made objects in the world.
ii. A few examples of shape are the triangular shape of modern jet aircraft
and the shape of a common single-family dwelling.
iii. Humans have modified the landscape in very interesting ways that has
given shape to many objects, but nature also shapes the landscape in its
own ways. In general, straight, rectilinear features in the environment
are of human origin.
iv. Nature produces more subtle shapes.
4. Shadow :
i. Virtually all remotely sensed data are collected within 2 hours of solar
noon to avoid extended shadows in the image or photo. This is because
shadows can obscure other objects that could otherwise be identified.
ii. On the other hand, the shadow cast by an object act as a key for the
identification of the object as the length of the shadow will be used to
estimate the height of the object which is vital for the recognition of the
object.
5. Tone and Colour :
i. Real-world materials like vegetation, water and bare soil reflect different
proportions of energy in the blue, green, red, and infrared portions of
the electro-magnetic spectrum.
ii. An interpreter can document the amount of energy reflected from each
at specific wavelengths to create a spectral signature. These signatures
can help to understand why certain objects appear as they do on black
and white or colour imagery. These shades of gray are referred to as
tone.
iii. The darker an object appears the less light it reflects. Colour imagery is
often preferred because, as opposed to shades of gray, humans can
detect thousands of different colours. Colour aids in the process of photo
interpretation.
6. Texture :
i. This is defined as the “characteristic placement and arrangement of
repetitions of tone or colour in an image.”
ii. Adjectives often used to describe texture are smooth (uniform,
homogeneous), intermediate, and rough (coarse, heterogeneous). It is
important to remember that texture is a product of scale.
iii. On a large scale depiction, objects could appear to have an intermediate

texture. But, as the scale becomes smaller, the texture could appear to
be more uniform, or smooth.
iv. A few examples of texture could be the “smoothness” of a paved road, or
the “coarseness” a pine forest.
7. Pattern :
i. Pattern is the spatial arrangement of objects in the landscape. The
objects may be arranged randomly or systematically.
ii. They can be natural, as with a drainage pattern of a river, or man-made,
as with the squares formed from the United States Public Land Survey
System.
iii. Typical adjectives used in describing pattern are : random, systematic,
circular, oval, linear, rectangular, and curvilinear to name a few.
8. Height and Depth :
i. Height and depth, also known as “elevation” and “bathymetry”, is one of
the most diagnostic elements of image interpretation.
ii. This is because any object, such as a building or an electric pole that rises
above the local landscape will exhibit some sort of radial relief. Also,
objects that exhibit this relief will cast a shadow that can also provide
information as to its height or elevation. A good example of this would
be buildings of any major city.
9. Site/Situation/Association :
i. Site has unique physical characteristics which might include elevation,
slope, and type of surface cover (e.g., grass, forest, water, bare soil).
ii. Site can also have socioeconomic characteristics such as the value of
land or the closeness to water.
iii. Situation refers to how the objects in the photo or image are organized
and “situated” in respect to each other. Most power plants have materials
and building associated in a fairly predictable manner.
iv. Association refers to the fact that when you find a certain activity within
a photo or image, you usually encounter related or "associated" features
or activities.
v. Site, situation, and association are rarely used independent of each
other when analyzing an image.
vi. An example of this would be a large shopping mall. Usually there are
multiple large buildings, massive parking lots, and it is usually located
near a major road or intersection.
Que 2.16. What are the advantages and disadvantages of visual

interpretation of remote sensing ?
Answer
Advantages of Visual Interpretation :
1. Simple method.
2. Inexpensive equipment.
3. Uses brightness and spatial content of the image.
4. Subjective and qualitative.
5. Concrete.
Disadvantages of Visual Interpretation :
1. Unfamiliar scale and resolutions.
2. Lack of understanding of physics of remote sensing.
3. Understanding proper spectral character of each object.
4. Visually interpret 3 layers of information at a time.

Q. 1. Define the remote sensing. What are the types of remote

sensing ?
Q. 2. Differentiate between active and passive remote sensing

systems, under what condition each is preferable ?
Q. 3. Describe the methods of collection of data.

Q. 4. How real remote sensing system differ from the ideal

requirement ?
Q. 5. What do you understand by electromagnetic spectrum ?

Q. 6. Describe the EMR interaction with water, soil and

vegetation.
Q. 7. Write a short note on digital image data.


3
UNIT
Geographic
Information
System (GIS)
CONTENTS
Part-1 : Geographic Information ............................3–2H to 3–4H
System : Introduction to
GIS, Components of GIS
Part-2 : Geospatial Data : .........................................3–5H to 3–9H

Spatial Data, Attribute Data,
Joining Spatial and
Attribute Data
Part-3 : GIS Operations : Spatial ......................... 3–9H to 3–17H

Data Input, Attribute Data
Management, Data
Display, Data Exploration,
Data Analysis
Part-4 : Co-ordinate System : ............................. 3–17H to 3–27H

Geographic Co-ordinate
System, Approximation of
Earth, Datum : Map Projection,
Types of Map Projection,
Map Projection Parameters,
Commonly used Map Projection,
Projected Co-ordinate System.
Geographic Information System (GIS) 3–2 H (CE-Sem-5)
PART-1
Geographic Information System : Introduction
to GIS, Components of GIS.
Questions-Answers
Que 3.1. Define the Geographical Information System (GIS).
Answer
A. GIS :
1. GIS stands for Geographical Information System. It consists of three
disciplines, geography + information + system, geography is about
Earth’s various surface features (physical, biological and cultural) and
information amongst them spatially referenced i.e., denoted by a
co-ordinate system, latitudes, longitudes.
2. System implies that a GIS is made up of several interrelated and
mutually linked components with different functions. These parts
operate individually and interact with one another as per procedures.
3. It can be considered to be made up of input, processing and output sub-
systems.
B. Definitions of GIS : Several definitions of GIS have been given by
different agencies, of which two are as follows :
1. According to Rhind (1989) : GIS is a system of hardware, software,
and procedures designed to support the capture management,
manipulation, analysis, modeling and display of spatially referenced
data for solving complex planning and management problems.
2. According to United State Geological Survey (1997) : GIS is a
computer based system capable of assembling, sorting, manipulating
and displaying geographically referenced information i.e., data
identified according to their location. In simplest form, GIS is a computer
aided system for storing, managing, manipulating geographical data to
solve spatial problems of real world.
Que 3.2. Define GIS and its components.

Answer
A. GIS : Refer Q. 3.1, Page 3–2H, Unit-3.
B. Components : Following are the components of GIS :
1. Hardware :
i. It is computer hardware on which GIS software runs.
ii It consists :
a. Input devices e.g., digitizer, scanner and GPS.
b. Storage devices e.g., magnetic tapes, CD, DVD, CD ROMs.
c. CPU : Depending on the data processing power of CPU, computers
are classified as super computers, main frame, mini computers,
work sections, micro-computers and personal computers.
d. Output devices e.g., display devices, printers, plotters.
2. Software :
i. These are programmes which run on the computers.
ii. These programmes provide functions and tools to store, analyze and
display geographic information.
3. Data :
i. Data in GIS is geospatial data. The sources of spatial data are digitized
maps, satellite images, aerial photographs, statistical tables etc.
ii. Geographical and related attribute data can also be collected by
surveying.
iii. Digital map forms are basic data input for GIS to which is attached
tabular (attribute) data.
iv. Database is the foundation of a GIS, and is as good as the data it uses.
v. GIS integrates spatial and attribute data.
4. Procedure :
i. Procedures designed to support the data capture, storage, processing,
analysis, modeling and display of geospatial data is important for a GIS.
ii. The interest and willingness of the organization setup and decision
makers is important for using the results for planning and
implementations.
5. Users : The roles of users are to select pertinent (useful) information
to set necessary standards, to design cost efficient updating schemes to
analyze GIS outputs for relevant purposes and plan the implementation.
No GIS exists in isolation of the user.
Que 3.3. List important functions of GIS and explain any one in
detail.
Answer
A. Function : Following are the various functions of GIS :
1. Buffering. 2. Reclassification.
3. Overlay analysis. 4. Proximity analysis.
5. Filtering.
1. Buffering :
i. It is the creation of a zone of interest around an entity.
ii. It is possible both in vector and raster data format.
iii. In vectors case, the result is a new set of objects.
iv. Buffers are very useful for analyzing landscapes, highway alignments
water supply networks and drainage studies.
v. Buffering is very simple but involves complex computational operation.
vi. If a point is buffered, a circular zone is created. Buffering lines and
areas creates new areas.
vii. Creating buffer zones around point features is the easiest operation; a
circle of required radius is simply drawn around each point.
viii. Some GIS do this by placing a circle of required radius at one end of the
line or area boundary to be buffered. This circle is then moved along
the length of the segment.
ix. Sometimes there may be a need for another buffer around a buffer.
This is called doughnut buffer.
Point Point
(a) Point buffer. buffer
Road
Road plus
buffer
Line buffer
Line (b) Line buffer.
Area Area Buffer

(c) Area buffer.
Point
Doughnut
buffer
(d) Doughnut buffer.

Fig. 3.3.1. Types of buffers.
PART-2
Geospatial Data : Spatial Data, Attribute Data ,
Joining Spatial and Attribute Data.
Questions-Answers
Que 3.4. What do you understand by spatial data ? How is the

spatial relationship represented ?
Answer
A. Spatial Data :
1. It is also called geographical data, it consists of natural and cultural
features that can be shown with lines or symbols on maps, or that can
be seen as images on photographs.
2. The data in the different forms (maps, photographs, images, etc,) being
in non-compatible formats create problems while integrating in GIS.
3. In a GIS, these data must be represented and spatially located in digital
form, by using a combination of fundamental elements called simple
spatial objects (SSO).
4. These SSO include points, lines and strings, areas or polygons, pixels,
and grid cells.
5. SSO can be represented by their respective symbols.
6. The spatial data represented as either layers or objects are simplified
by breaking down all geographic features with three basic entity types,
points, lines and areas, before they can be stored in the computer.
B. Spatial Entities : The basic spatial entities are as follows :
1. Point :
i. Its requirement is for geographical reference to locate it with respect
to other spatial entities.
ii. Point data consist of observations that occur only at points or occupy
very small areas in relation to the scale of the database. These define
single geometric positions as shown in Fig. 3.4.1(a).
2. Line and String :
i. It is ordered set of points (known as an arc, segment or chain) with
defined start and end points (nodes) which also give the line direction.
ii. A line connects two points, and a string is a sequence of two or more
lines as shown in Fig. 3.4.1(b).
3. Areal : It provides data about the points and lines used in construction
of the area, and how these are connected to define the boundary. An
area or polygon consists of a continuous space within three or more
connected lines as shown in Fig. 3.4.1(c).
4. Pixels : These are usually tiny squares that represent the smallest
elements into which a digital image is divided as shown in Fig. 3.4.1(d).
Continuous array of pixels, arranged in rows and columns, are used to
enter data from aerial photos, satellite images etc.
Point Line segment (line) String (polyline) Arc (line)

(a) Point data (b) Line data
Simple polygon Complex polygon

(only one boundary) (several boundaries)
(c) Areal (polygon data)
Grid cell
(pixel array)
Pixel
(d) Pixel (e ) Grid cell

Fig. 3.4.1. Representation of entities.
5. Grid Cells : These are single elements, usually square, within a

continuous geographic variable. Grid cells may be used to represent
terrain slopes, soil types, land cover etc., as shown in Fig. 3.4.1(e).
C. Relationship :
1. Spatial relationships are connections between spatial objects when
geometric properties are considered.
2. Three types of spatial relationships have been recognized, i.e.,
topological, metric and ordinal.
3. Here, topological relationships are those that do not change under

topological transformation, e.g., the connectivity of two objects, metric
relationships are those described by measures of a metric space, and
distances and angles are of those relations, ordinal relationships are
represented by relative orders between objects, which are often
described by prepositions such as before and behind.
4. These three types of spatial relationships are perhaps major ones, but
unfortunately, they are not comprehensive.
Que 3.5. What things can be represented by point, line and

polygon ? Explain topological data model to represent area.
Answer
A. Point :
1. Depiction by point depends on scale of the map. It is used to denote
survey control points, a well are generally represented as point, which
have negligible dimension.
2. A building, village, a city can be represented as point depend on scale of
map.
B. Line : Lines are used to depict features which are primarily linear e.g.,
roadway, railway, river, canal, pipe lines, village boundary etc.
C. Polygon : Polygon is used to depict an area e.g., forest, cultivable land,
fellow land, water body etc.
D. Topological Data Model : Topological data model is described the
relations what exist in area features which are as follows :
1. Adjacency : These are areas which have a common boundary.
2. Containment : These are area features which may be wholly contained
within another e.g., an island within a lake, district of a state.
3. Connectivity : It is used to describe linkage between linear features
e.g., network of railways/roads.
Que 3.6. Write a short note on non-spatial data.
Answer
Non-Spatial Data :
1. The non-spatial data, also known as attribute data, are information
about various attributes like length, area, population, acreage, etc.
2. Normally the spatial and non-spatial data are stored separately in a

GIS, and links are established between the two at the time of processing
and analysis.
3. The non-spatial data describe the attributes of a point, along a line, or
in a polygon.
4. In other words they describe what is at a point (e.g., a hospital), along
a line (e.g., a canal), or in a polygon (e.g., a forest).
5. The attributes of a soil category may be depth of soil, texture, type of
erosion, permeability.
6. The non-spatial data, mostly available in tabular form, are also
converted into digital format for use in GIS.
Que 3.7. Write a short note on joining spatial and attribute

data.
Answer
Joining Spatial and Attribute Data :

1. After completing the data correction and merging operations, we join
the spatial data with their corresponding attribute data.
2. Joining attribute data is begun by adding a common attribute shared
by both spatial and attribute data.
3. GIS packages use the attribute data to identify spatial objects using
their attributes.
4. In general, we use the identification number of spatial objects as their
common attribute.
5. In addition to the identification number, other attributes, such as the
address of houses and the name of house owners, can also be used as
a common attribute.
6. However, since character attributes are more likely to have
typographical errors, numerical attributes are more desirable.
7. The common attribute is the key to joining spatial and attribute data. A
GIS package reads the identification number of the first spatial object,
looks up this number in the attribute data, and then joins the attributes
to the spatial object (if the same identification number exists).
8. Then, the GIS moves to the second spatial object and joins its attributes.
9. This procedure is repeated for all the spatial objects in the generation
of the complete spatial data (Table 3.8.1).
Table 3.8.1. Joining attribute data.

(a) Spatial data; (b) Attribute data; and
(c) Spatial data joined with the attribute data.
Internal ID ID defined by user Owner’s name Floor size

(a) Spatial data :
1 15
2 14
3 27
4 11
5 8
(b) Attribute data :
15 Ankit 240.3
14 Rustam 195.6
27 Hareesh 212.4
11 Vikas 200.7
8 Nitendra 231.1
(c) Spatial data joined with attribute data :
1 15 Ankit 240.3
2 14 Rustam 195.6
3 27 Hareesh 212.4
4 11 Vikas 200.7
5 8 Nitendra 231.1
PART-3
GIS Operations : Spatial Data Input, Attribute Data Management,
Data Display, Data Exploration, Data Analysis.
Questions-Answers
Que 3.8. Describe the data capture and input of GIS.
Answer
Data Capture and Input of GIS :
1. The data of GIS is available in a number of forms and formats, so it can
be captured by using a number of methods like photographic method,
numerical method, digital encoding method, pictorial labeled method,

descriptive method, graphical colour coded method etc.
2. Two types of equipments are used to capture the GIS data :
i. Field data capture hardware.
ii. Computer data capture hardware.
i. Field Data Capture Hardware :
a. They are the simple electronic equipments.
b. They are portable and can be used easily by a single person, e.g.,
data loggers, GPS.
c. They are capable of collecting a large amount of data, they are
cheap, light weighted, accurate and can be directly interfaced with
the computer, through USB (universal serial bus) ports.
ii. Computer Data Capture Hardware :
a. The data collected by the two field equipments mentioned above,
is in digital format.
b. But the data like maps, photographs, or images (analog data) such
data may not be available in the digital format.
c. So it needs to be converted from the analog to digital format.
Que 3.9. Describe the computer data capture hardware.
Answer
Computer Data Capture Hardware :
1. The data collected by the field equipments is in digital format.
2. But the data like maps, photographs, or images (this type of data is
known as analog data) such data may not be available in the digital
format.
3. So it need to be converted from the analog to digital format. The
conversion is performed by one of the two methods, such as
i. Digitizing
ii. Scanning
i. Digitising :
a. It is a process which is used to convert the hard copy map or an
aerial photograph or an image, into a digital format, to be displayed
on a computer screen. The equipment is known as digitizer.
b. It looks like a tracing table and have a flat, non-conducting surface
into this, the cartesian grid of fine wires embedded. To this table
or tablet a tracing pen is attached (or cursor or puck). A computer
is necessary for viewing and recording the digital captured data.
c Any type of photograph or a map can be fixed to the surface of the

digitizer. The user of the digitizer, select, an outline to follow with
the cross-wire on the cursor.
d. When the line is followed, one of the buttons on the cursor is
continuously clicked, to record the shape of the line. (The cursor
may have upto 16 buttons). These buttons help other inputs or
operations, like adding identifiers or for working in stream mode.
ii. Scanning :
a. It is another method used for converting the hardcopy map into a
digital format, but unlike digitizing, in scanning, it captures all the
information, on a given sheet, very quickly.
b. It is an ideal method to capture all the information from the map
or a paper image, or to add information to the base map ; and for
archiving existing maps.
c. In the big range of scanners, all of them use photosensitive pickup
devices for registering different colours different gray shades,
from the surface of the map, so they convert the analog image
into the digital image. The data is stored as raster images because
the pixel values that vary with the difference in the intensity of
light.
d. Most of the scanners are capable of 8-bit resolution, or 256
brightness levels. The software converts the raster image into
vector format for the further data entry.
e. Following are the important scanning devices, available in the
market :
Flat-bed Scanners :
i. They have the photosensitive pickup that is mounted on a beam to
allow the pickup to traverse the map, along the x-axis and the whole
beam, then moves, slowly along a track, in the y-axis direction.
Drum Scanner :
i. The procedure of this scanner is same as that of the flat-bed scanner,
but in this scanner, the map is mounted on a drum (as the name
suggest).
ii. The drum then slowly revolves below the fixed track on which, the
pickup rides in forward and backward directions, on x-axis.
Que 3.10. Describe the data processing of GIS.
Answer
Data Processing :
1. The computer itself is the data processing hardware. There are a lot
computer processers, ranging from mainframes to mini-computers
and from work-station to micro or personal computers (PCs), and at

present, from laptop computers to note book computers (palm top
computers).
2. The first generation computers and so the processors were larger in
size (and slower in working). At present, the sizes have and the prices
have been reduced and the performance of the processors/ computers
have gone up e.g. Today PC can perform like most of the workstations
which are about five years old.
3. So, for GIS, mainframe would be replaced by work-station. Although,
some of the complicated work and complex packages mainframe is still
used.
4. Work-station is a logical choice. Most of them have a 32-bit architecture
a large main memory and a large storage capacity, and high resolution
graphics screen.
5. An average GIS work-station has the fallowing specifications :
i. A processing unit having 500 + MIPS (Million Instructions/per second)
ii. At least, 512 Megabyte Random Access Memory. (RAM.)
iii. 80 Giabytes of storage space on the internal hard disks.
iv. A communication device, with 100 megabits/per sec, transfer rate.
v. A high resolution work-station screen.
Que 3.11. Explain the data storage of GIS.
Answer
Data Storage of GIS :
1. It is necessary for the GIS to store a large volume of Data, together
with the large primary memory, the secondary storage has become an
important component of hardware.
2. This secondary storage has mainly two activities to carry which are as
follows :
i. Storage of the computer programmes and datasets which consist of
data that remains unchanged e.g. The read only material.
ii. Storage of data work which changes very frequently.
3. Generally 3.5 inch floppy disk and the computer's hard-disk drive is
used as a media for storing data. The floppy disks have a limited storing
capacity i.e., 1.44 MB for a high density disk.
4. The hard drives for the PC, may range up to 40 Gigabyte to at least 80
GB. The storage capacity is used as a backup for the data.
5. A new external hard drive has extended the capacity of the computers.
It is used to store the data separately from the main computer. In case
of ‘crash’, this acts as the backup storage system.
6. The tape drives are used to store a large data. They are either in the
form of magnetic tape cartridges or Red-to-Red drives.
7. The Digital Auto Tapes (DAT) and the video cartridges are very popular
because of their higher capacities and also because of their
Compactness.
8. As the magnetic tapes are to be kept away from the moisture and list.
Their physical storage has become difficult and so they are cheap, their
use has been reduced.
9. To have access to a large volume of data another storage medium is
used. It is called as compact disks-read only memory (CD-ROM).
10. The CDs are optical disks which use laser technology, and have a huge
capacity to store data e.g., a CD can store data up to 700 Megabytes.
11. They are easy to archive and transport less in cost. They can be written
to can be edited and can be re-written.
Que 3.12. How the data display is carried out ?
Answer
1. Among all, the visualization of a map or an image, is the most important
aspect of GIS application.
2. The other functions of GIS like data capturing, processing and storage
become useless and meaningless, if the function of visualization is
available for the users, to take the decisions.
3. Many data display devices are available in the market, they are available
as the generic devices and the specific devices for GIS.
4. Following are some of the important display devices.
i. Video Display Unit : The VDU is also known as the computer screen
or monitor.
Together with the development in computer technology the Cathode
Ray Tube (CRT) based monitors also are having a fast development
like.
a. For most of the PC screens high resolution displays with a dot
pitch of greater than 0.28 mm are available.
b. They give the standard resolution of 1024 horizontal dots in 768
vertical lines.
c. With the larger screens on the work-stations now there may
1600 × 1280 screen dot image.
d. The screens have Non-interlaced scanning. This gives a flicker
free display.
e. The screens have low-radiation, anti-static and anti-magnetic
features.
f. Though the capacity of the programme may restrict the colour

range the VDU now have to colour capability of potential display
of million colours, (with 24-bit memory).
g. These screens can be commonly transferred between different
computing environments. Now the screens support the array of
graphic adaptors.
h. Let us see how the display takes place on the colour monitor from
the CPU (Central Processing Unit).
ii. Printers and Plotters :
a. For viewing the image in a hard copy form displays are necessary
such as on paper.
b. For process of printing a large number of printers and plotters are
available in the market.
c. Before these printer or plotters are purchased the user must
think about speed the throughput of output nature of output size
type, quantity and quality of output the requirement of paper and
ink etc.
d. Dot matrix printer, Laser printer and Ink-jet printer are the types
of printers and plotters which are commonly used in GIS.
Que 3.13. Write a short note on :

A. Dot matrix printer/line printer.
B. Laser printer.
C. Ink-jet printer.
D. Line or vector plotter.
E. Thermal plotter.
Answer
A. Dot Matrix Printer/Line Printer :
1. They are the low cost and very popular output devices. These are used
for both i.e., high volume output of textual documents or for slow
output of graphical material like maps, graphs, charts etc.
2. The general size of output is A4 size but many devices can produce A3
size or longer output on a traction paper.
3. The speed varies between 300 and 2000 lines/min. The speed depends
upon the setting of the printer and on the quality of the device.
4. The output is via series of dots with the resolution depending up on the
density of pins on the print head. (It is in the range between 70 and 150
dots/per inch). Multiple colour ribbons can be used to get a limited
range of colours.
5. From the dot matrix printers, the output is crude, noisy. If they are to
be indged on the basis of cost, some people still go for these devises.
B. Laser Printer :
1. Use of laser technology has made these printers have very high quality
and almost silent output of textual and graphical information.
2. Till the recent past the output used to be in black and white only but
now this technology has succeeded in giving colourful outputs and has
reduced their prices also.
3. These printers have high variations in size i.e., it is available from the
small A4 size model, which is easily portable and having an output of 15
pages per minute with the resolution of 300 dots per Inch, up to a large
A0 size model with the resolution varying between 400 and 600 dots
per inch.
4. These large size printers have the output almost equal to the output of
conventional offset printing.
C. Ink-jet Printer :
1. These printers are cheper than the laser printers and they are based
on a different type of technology.
2. The output is obtained by pushing an ink through the small nozzle
which from the microscopic droplets.
3. These droplets strike the printing media as per the commods given.
Infinite array of colours can be achieved by mixing any combination of
the Red, Green, and blue the basic three colours by using the multiple
nozzles.
4. The resolution varies between 120 and 300 dots/per inch.
5. The speed is comparatively slow but with the latest improvements in
their price, speed resolution and reliability.
6. These printers have become very popular as the output device of GIS.
7. In near future this technology will provide an all-round solution to the
needs of the users of GIS.
D. Line or Vector Plotter :
1. These are of two types of pen plotters such as drum or roller type and
flat-bed type plotters.
2. Each of these two same advantages :
i. Both use cartage pens (which can be of variable colours or line width)
both, produce vector or line output.
ii. This output corresponds to the grid co-ordinates which is in the computer
file ; to that, they are linked.
iii. The speed is upto 100 lines per cm/per sec.
3. The only limitation of this technology is that it needs constant
supervision to avoid the situation of clogging of pens or pens running
out of ink etc.
4. Drum plotters consist of a drum which rotates in both the directions.

5. A roll of paper or any other drawing media is attached to the drum.
6. The pen or pens move, horizontally in both the directions along a
cartage to plot lines.
7. The width of the drum plotters varies between 20 cm and 150 cms. The
output can be upto eight colours.
E. Thermal Plotter :
1. They use the local heating to warm, the thermo-sensitive paper. The
paper is coated with two separate colourless components. After heating,
this combination produces a wide-range of colours, having a reasonable
quality.
2. They produce the output in raster format upto 15 metres length. They
have the resolution of over 400 dots/ inch though these plotters are
costly, they have several advantages like, they have no cartridges, or
toner or ink are required.
3. As the ink gets absorbed automatically no feathering of line is necessary.
They run almost unattended.
Que 3.14. Write a short note on data exploration in GIS.
Answer
Data Exploration in GIS :
1. Data exploration is the initial step in data analysis, where users explore
a large data set in an unstructured way to uncover initial patterns,
characteristics, and points of interest.
2. This process is not meant to reveal every bit of information a dataset
holds, but rather to help create a broad picture of important trends and
major points to study in greater detail.
3 Data exploration can use a combination of manual methods and
automated tools such as data visualizations, charts, and initial reports.
4. This process makes deeper analysis easier because it can help target
future searches and begin the process of excluding irrelevant data
points and search paths that may turn up no results.
5. More importantly, it helps build a familiarity with the existing
information that makes finding better answers much simpler.
6. Many times, data exploration uses visualization because it creates a
more straight forward view of datasets than simply examining
thousands of individual numbers or names.
7. In any data exploration, the manual and automated aspects also look
at different sides of the same coin. Manual analysis helps users
familiarize themselves with information and can point to broad trends.
Que 3.15. Explain the geospatial analysis.
Answer
Geospatial Analysis :
1. Geospatial analysis is the gathering, display, and manipulation of
imagery, GPS, satellite photography and historical data, described
explicitly in terms of geographic co-ordinates or implicitly, in terms of
a street address, postal code, or forest stand identifier as they are
applied to geographic models.
2. In the case of vector-based GIS this typically means operations such as
map overlay (combining two or more maps or map layers according to
predefined rules), simple buffering (identifying regions of a map within
a specified distance of one or more features, such as towns, roads or
rivers) and similar basic operations.
3. For raster-based GIS, widely used in the environmental sciences and
remote sensing, this typically means a range of actions applied to the
grid cells of one or more maps (or images) often involving filtering and/
or algebraic operations (map algebra).
4. These techniques involve processing one or more raster layers according
to simple rules resulting in a new map layer, for example replacing
each cell value with some combination of its neighbours' values, or
computing the sum or difference of specific attribute values for each
grid cell in two matching raster datasets.
5. Descriptive statistics, such as cell counts, means, variances, maxima,
minima, cumulative values, frequencies and a number of other
measures and distance computations are also often included in this
generic term spatial analysis.
6. Spatial analysis includes a large variety of statistical techniques
(descriptive, exploratory, and explanatory statistics) that apply to data
that vary spatially and which can vary over time.
PART-4
Co-ordinate System : Geographic Co-ordinate System, Approximation
of Earth, Datum : Map Projection, Types of Map Projection,
Map Projection Parameters, Commonly used Map
Projection, Projected Co-ordinate System.
Questions-Answers

Que 3.16. What do you mean by co-ordinate system in GIS ?
Answer
Geographic Coordinate System ( GCS ) :
1. A geographic coordinate system, also known as global or spherical
coordinate system is a reference system that uses a three-dimensional
spherical surface to determine locations on the earth. Any location on
earth can be referenced by a point with longitude and latitude.
2. We must familiarize ourselves with the geographic terms with respect
to the Earth coordinate system in order to use the GIS technologies
effectively. Following are the technological terms are used in GCS:
i. Pole : The geographic pole of earth is defined as either of the two points
where the axis of rotation of the earth meets its surface. The North Pole
lies 90º north of the equator and the South Pole lies 90º south of the
equator
ii. Latitude : Imaginary lines that run horizontally around the globe and
are measured from 90º north to 90º south. Also known as parallels,
latitudes are equidistant from each other.
iii. Equator : An imaginary line on the earth with zero degree latitude,
divides the earth into two halves-Northern and Southern Hemisphere.
This parallel has the widest circumference.
Pole Pole
Northern
West East
Equator
Southern Prime
meridian
Pole Pole
Fig. 3.16.1. Division of Earth into hemispheres.
iv. Longitude : Imaginary lines that run vertically around the globe. Also
known as meridians, longitudes are measured from 180º east to 180º
west. Longitudes meet at the poles and are widest apart at the equator.
v. Prime Meridian : Zero degree longitude which divides the Earth into
two halves-Eastern and Western hemisphere. As it runs through the
Royal Greenwich Observatory in Greenwich, England it is also known
as Greenwich meridian
Prime
meridian
Latitude
Equator
Longitude
Fig. 3.16.2. Latitude and longitude measurements.
3. Equator (0º) is the reference for the measurement of latitude. Latitude

is measured north or south of the equator.
4. For measurement of longitude, prime meridian (0º) is used as a reference.
Longitude is measured east or west of prime meridian.
6. The grid of latitude and longitude over the globe is known as graticule.
The intersection point of the equator and the prime meridian is the
origin (0, 0) of the graticule.
Que 3.17. What do you understand by map projection and what

are the classification of map projections ?
Answer
Map Projection:
1. Map projection is a mathematical expression using which the three-
dimensional surface of Earth is represented in a two dimensional plane.
The process of projection results in distortion of one or more map
properties such as shape, size, area or direction.
2. A single projection system can never account for the correct
representation of all map properties for all the regions of the world.
Therefore, hundreds of projection systems have been defined for accurate
representation of a particular map element for a particular region of the
world.
Classification of Map Projections :
Map projections are classified on the following criteria :
1. Method of Construction : The term map projection implies projecting
the graticule of the Earth onto a flat surface with the help of shadow
cast. However, not all of the map projections are developed in this
manner. Some projections are developed using mathematical calculations
only. Following are the projections that are based on the method of
construction:
i. Perspective Projections : These projections are made with the help
of shadow cast from an illuminated globe on to a developable surface.
ii. Non-Perspective Projections :

a. These projections do not use shadow cast from an illuminated globe
on to a developable surface.
b. A developable surface is only assumed to be covering the globe and
the construction of projections is done using mathematical
calculations.
2. Development Surface : Projection transforms the co-ordinates of Earth
on to a surface that can be flattened to a plane without distortion (shearing
or stretching). Such a surface is called a developable surface. The three
basic projections are based on the types of developable surface and are
introduced below:
i. Cylindrical Projection.
ii. Conic Projection.
iii. Planer, Azimuthal or Zenithal Projection.
3. Projection Properties :
According to properties map projections can be classified as :
i. Equal Area Projection : It is also known as homolographic projections.
The areas of different parts of earth are correctly represented by such
projections.
ii. True Shape Projection : It is also known as orthomorphic projections.
The shapes of different parts of earth are correctly represented on
these projections.
iii. True Scale or Equidistant Projections : Projections that maintain
correct scale are called true scale projections. However, no projection
can maintain the correct scale throughout. Correct scale can only be
maintained along some parallel or meridian.
4. Position of Light Source : Placing light source illuminating the globe
at different positions results in the development of different projections.
These projections are :
i. Gnomonic projection : When the source of light is placed at the
centre of the globe.
ii. Stereographic Projection : When the source of light is placed at the
periphery of the globe, diametrically opposite to the point at which
developable surface touches the globe.
iii. Orthographic Projection : When the source of light is placed at infinity
from the globe opposite to the point at which developable surface touches
the globe.
Gnomonic Stereographic Orthographic

Fig. 3.17.1. Projections and position of light source.
Que 3.18. What do you mean by development surface in map

projection and what are the basic projections based on the develpable
surface ?
Answer
Development Surface : Refer Q.3.17, Page 3–19H, Unit-3.
Types : The three basic projections are based on the types of developable
surface and are introduced below :
1. Cylindrical Projection :
i. It can be visualized as a cylinder wrapped around the globe.
ii. Once the graticule is projected onto the cylinder, the cylinder is opened
to get a grid like pattern of latitudes and longitudes.
iii. The longitudes (meridians) and latitudes (parallels) appear as straight
lines.
iv. Length of equator on the cylinder is equal to the length of the equator
therefore is suitable for showing equatorial regions.
Map of the world
Fig. 3.18.1.
Aspects of cylindrical projection :
(a) (b ) (c )
Fig. 3.18.2.
a. Normal : When cylinder has line of tangency to the equator. It
includes Equirectangular Projection, the Mercator projection,
Lambert’s Cylindrical Equal Area, Gall's Stereographic Cylindrical,
and Miller cylindrical projection.
b. Transverse : When cylinder has line of tangency to the meridian.
It includes the Cassini Projection, Transverse Mercator, Transverse
cylindrical Equal Area Projection, and Modified Transverse Mercator.
c. Oblique : When cylinder has line of tangency to another point on
the globe. It only consists of the oblique mercator projection.
2. Conic Projection :
i. It can be visualized as a cone placed on the globe, tangent to it at some
parallel.
ii. After projecting the graticule on to the cone, the cone is cut along one of
the meridian and unfolded. Parallels appear as arcs with a pole and
meridians as straight lines that converge to the same point.
iii. It can represent only one hemisphere, at a time, northern or southern.
iv. Suitable for representing middle latitudes.
Map of the world
Fig. 3.18.3.
Aspects of Conic Projection :
Standard parallel 1
Standard parallel
Standard parallel 2
(a) (b )
Fig. 3.18.4.
a. Tangent : When the cone is tangent to only one of the parallel.

b. Secant : When the cone is not big enough to cover the curvature of
Earth, it intersects the Earth twice at two parallels.
3. Planer, Azimuthal or Zenithal Projection :
i. It can be visualized as a flat sheet of paper tangent to any point on the
globe.
ii. The sheet will have the tangent point as the centre of the circular map,
where meridians passing through the centre are straight line and the
parallels are seen as concentric circle.
iii. Suitable for showing polar areas.
Map of the world
Fig. 3.18.5.
Aspects of zenithal projection :
(a) (b) (c )
Fig. 3.18.6.
a. Equatorial Zenithal : When the plane is tangent to a point on the

equator.
b. Oblique Zenithal : When the plane is tangent to a point between
a pole and the equator.
c. Polar Zenithal : When the plane is tangent to one of the poles.
Que 3.19. What are the selection of map projection of an area ?
Answer
Selection of Map Projection :
Choosing a correct map projection for an area depends on the following:
1. Map Purpose : Considering the purpose of the map is important while

choosing the map projection. If a map has a specific purpose, one may
need to preserve a certain property such as shape, area or direction.
On the basis of the property preserved, maps can be categorized as
following :
i. Maps that Preserve Shapes : Used for showing local directions and
representing the shapes of the features. Such maps include :
a. Topographic and cadastral maps.
b. Navigation charts (for plotting course bearings and wind direction).
c. Civil engineering maps and military maps.
d. Weather maps (for showing the local direction in which weather
systems are moving).
ii. Maps that Preserve Area : The size of any area on the map is in true
proportion to its size on the earth. Such projections can be used to
show :
a. Density of an attribute e.g. population density with dots.
b. Spatial extent of a categorical attribute e.g. land use maps.
c. Quantitative attributes by area e.g. Gross Domestic Product by
country.
d. World political maps to correct popular misconceptions about the
relative sizes of countries.
iii. Maps that Preserve Scale : Preserves true scale from a single point to
all other points on the map. The maps that use this property include :
a. Maps of airline distances from a single city to several other cities.
b. Seismic maps showing distances from the epicenter of an
earthquake.
c. Maps used to calculate ranges; for example, the cruising ranges of
airplanes or the habitats of animal species.
iv. Maps that Preserve Direction : On any Azimuthal projection, all
azimuths, or directions, are true from a single specified point to all other
points on the map. On a conformal projection, directions are locally true,
but are distorted with distance.
2. Study Area :
i. Geographical Location :
a. The line of zero distortion for a cylindrical projection is equator. For
conical projections it is parallels and for Azimuthal it is one of the
poles.
b. If the study area is in tropics use cylindrical projection, for middle

latitudes use conical and for Polar Regions use Azimuthal
projections.
ii. Shape of the Area :
a. Young in 1920 described a way of selecting the map projection
which is known as Young’s rule.
b. According to this rule, if the ratio of maximum extent (z) (measured
from the centre of the country to its most distant boundary) and
the width of the country comes out to be less than 1.41, azimuthal
projection is preferable.
c. If the ratio is greater than 1.41, a conical or cylindrical projection
should be used.
Que 3.20. Describe the map projection parameter.
Answer
Map Projection Parameters : Following are the projection parameter :

1. Linear Parameters :
i. False easting is a linear value applied to the origin of the x-co-ordinates.
false northing is a linear value applied to the origin of the y-co-ordinates.
ii. False easting and northing values are usually applied to ensure that all
x-and y-values are positive. We can also use the false easting and northing
parameters to reduce the range of the x- or y-co-ordinate values. For
example, if you know all y-values are greater than 5,000,000 meters,
you could apply a false northing of -5,000,000.
iii. Height defines the point of perspective above the surface of the sphere
or spheroid for the vertical near-side perspective projection.
2. Angular Parameters :
i. Azimuth defines the center line of a projection. The rotation angle
measures east from north. This is used with the azimuth cases of the
Hotine Oblique Mercator, rectified skew orthomorphic, and Local
projections.
ii. Central meridian defines the origin of the x-co-ordinates.
iii. Longitude of origin defines the origin of the x-co-ordinates. The central
meridian and longitude of origin parameters are synonymous.
iv. Central parallel defines the origin of the y-co-ordinates.
v. Latitude of origin defines the origin of the y-co-ordinates. This parameter
may not be located at the center of the projection.
vi. In particular, conic projections use this parameter to set the origin of the
y-co-ordinates below the area of interest.
vii. In that instance, you do not need to set a false northing parameter to
ensure that all y-coordinates are positive.
3. Unitless Parameters :
i. Scale factor is a unitless value applied to the center point or line of a map
projection.
ii. The scale factor is usually slightly less than one. The Universal
Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate system, which uses the
Transverse Mercator projection.
iii. This creates two almost parallel lines approximately 180 kilometers, or
about 1°, away where the scale is 1.0. The scale factor reduces the
overall distortion of the projection in the area of interest.
Que 3.21. Describe the projected co-ordinate system.
Answer
Projected Co-ordinate System :

1. A projected co-ordinate system is defined on a flat, two-dimensional
surface. Unlike a geographic co-ordinate system, a projected co-ordinate
system has constant lengths, angles, and areas across the two dimensions.
2. A projected co-ordinate system is always based on a geographic
co-ordinate system that is based on a sphere or spheroid.
3. In a projected coordinate system, locations are identified by x, y
co-ordinates on a grid, with the origin at the center of the grid. Each
position has two values that reference it to that central location.
4. One specifies its horizontal position and the other its vertical position.
The two values are called the x-co-ordinate and y-co-ordinate. Using
this notation, the co-ordinates at the origin are x = 0 and y = 0.
5. On a gridded network of equally spaced horizontal and vertical lines, the
horizontal line in the center is called the x-axis and the central vertical
line is called the y-axis.
6. Units are consistent and equally spaced across the full range of x and y.
Horizontal lines above the origin and vertical lines to the right of the
origin have positive values; those below or to the left have negative
values.
7. The four quadrants represent the four possible combinations of positive
and negative X and Y coordinates.
8. When working with data in a geographic coordinate system, it is

sometimes useful to equate the longitude values with the X axis and the
latitude values with the Y axis.
X<0 X>0
Y>0 Y>0
(0, 0)
X
X<0 X>0
Y<0 Y<0

Q. 1. Define the Geographical Information System (GIS).

Q. 2. List important functions of GIS and explain any one in

detail.
Q. 3. What do you understand by spatial data ? How is the spatial

relationship represented ?
Q. 4. Write a short note on non-spatial data.

Q. 5. Describe the data capture and input of GIS.

Q. 6. Explain the data storage of GIS.

Q. 7. How the data display is carried out ?

Q. 8. Explain the geospatial analysis.

Q. 9. What do you understand by map projection and what are

the classification of map projections ?
Q. 10. What are the selection of map projection of an area ?

Q. 11. Describe the projected co-ordinate system.


4
UNIT
Vector Data Model
CONTENTS
Part-1 : Vector Data Model ................................... 4–2H to 4–14H
Representation of Simple
Features-Topology and its
Importance : Coverage and
its Data Structure, Shape Files,
Data Models for Composite
Features Objects Based Vector
Part-2 : Data Model : Classes and ..................... 4–14H to 4–18H

their Relationships, the
Geobased Data Model,
Geometric Representation
of Spatial Feature and
Structure, Topology Rules
Vector Data Model 4–2 H (CE-Sem-5)
PART-1
Vector Data Model Representation of Simple Features-Topology and
its Importance : Coverage and its Data Structure, Shape Files,
Data Models for Composite Features Objects Based Vector.
Questions-Answers
Que 4.1. What do you mean by the data structure for GIS ?
Answer
Data Structure for GIS :
1. Data for a GIS must be represented in a form that preserves locational
identities of each unit of information, so that it is possible to retrieve
data by location and therefore to depict and analyse geographic patterns.
2. Because data are frequently derived from a ‘conventional’ (non-digital)
map or image, it is necessary to convert them into digital form suitable
for use by a GIS.
3. This process, known as geocoding, records the pattern/features of a
map in a form that can be accepted and manipulated by computers.
4. The simple spatial objects may be coded in two different formats (vector
and raster) for storing and manipulating these spatial data in a GIS.
5. Both of these data structures, also called data models or sometimes
data formats, offer contrasting advantages and disadvantages.
6. When data are depicted in the vector format, a combination of points,
lines and strings, an area is used, whereas the raster format uses
pixels and grid cells.
7. Fig. 4.1.1 shows a representation of simple spatial objects in vector and
raster models.
8. Usually, a GIS must be designed on either a raster or a vector format.
9. Because of differences in equipment, computer programs, and expertise
required for the two different approaches, the choice depends upon
the facilities available, the kinds of data to be examined, and the
purposes of establishing the GIS.
10. Also, it is possible to convert from vector-to-raster format by applying
relatively straight forward computer algorithms, but it is a little difficult
to do raster to vector conversion.
(a) Vector model (b) Raster model

Fig. 4.1.1. Spatial data models.
Que 4.2. Explain vector data model.
Answer
Vector Data Model :
1. The vector model is close to the traditional mapping approach where
the objects are represented as points, lines, or areas.
2. In a vector model, the positions of points, lines, and areas are precisely
specified.
3. The position of each object is defined by a series of co-ordinate pairs.
4. Vectors are graphical objects that have geometrical primitives such as
points, lines, and polygons to represent geographical entities in computer
graphics.
5. Vectors have a precise direction, length, and shape, and can be defined
by co-ordinate geometry.
6. A point is described by a single x – y co-ordinate pair and by its name or
label. A line is described by a set of co-ordinate pairs and by its name or
label.
7. In reality, a line is described by an infinite number of points. In practice,
this is not a feasible way of storing a line. Therefore, a line is built up by
its starting and ending coordinate pairs.
8. An area, also called a polygon, is described by a set of coordinate pairs
and by its name or label.
9. Vector data model are classified on the basis of :
i. Object-based vector model.
ii. Field-based vector model.
Que 4.3. What are the three basic spatial entities and how are
these used to portray geographical features on paper maps and in
GIS ?
OR
What do you understand by spatial data ? How is the spatial
relationship represented ?
Answer
A. Spatial Data :
1. It is also called graphical data, it consists of natural and cultural features
that can be shown with lines or symbols on maps, or that can be seen
as images on photographs.
2. The data in the different forms (maps, photographs, images, etc,) being
in non-compatible formats create problems while integrating in GIS.
3. In a GIS, these data must be represented and spatially located in digital
form, by using a combination of fundamental elements called simple
spatial objects (SSO).
4. These SSO include points, lines and strings, areas or polygons, pixels,
and grid cells.
5. SSO can be represented by their respective symbols.
6. The spatial data represented as either layers or objects are simplified
by breaking down all geographic features with three basic entity types,
points, lines and areas, before they can be stored in the computer.
B. Spatial Entities : The basic spatial entities are as follows :
1. Point : Its requirement is for geographical reference to locate it with
respect to other spatial entities. Point data consist of observations that
occur only at points or occupy very small areas in relation to the scale
of the database. These define single geometric positions as shown in
Fig. 4.3.1(a).
2. Line and String : It is ordered set of points (known as an arc, segment
or chain) with defined start and end points (nodes) which also give the
line direction. A line connects two points, and a string is a sequence of
two or more lines as shown in Fig. 4.3.1(b).
3. Areal : It provides data about the points and lines used in construction
of the area, and how these are connected to define the boundary. An
area or polygon consists of a continuous space within three or more
connected lines as shown in Fig. 4.3.1(c).
4. Pixels : These are usually tiny squares that represent the smallest
elements into which a digital image is divided as shown in Fig. 4.3.1(d).
Continuous array of pixels, arranged in rows and columns, are used to

enter data from aerial photos, satellite images etc.
Point Line segment (line) String (polyline) Arc (line)

(a) Point data (b) Line data
Simple polygon Complex polygon

(only one boundary) (several boundaries)
(c) Areal (polygon data)
Grid cell
(pixel array)
Pixel
(d) Pixel (e ) Grid cell

Fig. 4.3.1. Representation of entities.
5. Grid Cells : These are single elements, usually square, within a

continuous geographic variable. Grid cells may be used to represent
terrain slopes, soil types, land cover etc., as shown in Fig. 4.3.1 (e).
C. Relationship :
1. Spatial relationships are connections between spatial objects when
geometric properties are considered.
2. Three types of spatial relationships have been recognized, i.e.,
topological, metric and ordinal.
3. Here, topological relationships are those that do not change under
topological transformation, e.g., the connectivity of two objects, metric
relationships are those described by measures of a metric space, and
distances and angles are of those relations, ordinal relationships are
represented by relative orders between objects, which are often
described by prepositions such as before and behind.
4. These three types of spatial relationships are perhaps major ones, but
unfortunately, they are not comprehensive.
Que 4.4. What is topology and why it is important in GIS ?

Answer
Topology in GIS :
1. Topology in GIS is generally defined as the spatial relationships between
adjacent or neighboring vector features (points, polylines and polygons).
2. In GIS, topology is implemented through data structure.
Importance of Topology in GIS :
In terms of functionality, topology is important to GIS in (at least) three
important ways :
1. Topology is necessary for certain spatial functions such as network
routing through linear networks. Here the idea is that if line features
do not share common nodes, that routes cannot be established through
the network.
2. Topology can be used to create data sets with better quality control and
greater data integrity. Topology rules can be created so that edits made
to a dataset can be ‘validated’ and show errors in that dataset. An
example would be the creation of a new manhole/sewer access feature
outside a polygon dataset of road features.
3. By creating topological relationships between feature classes, features
can be shared across feature classes. In other words, if you open one
dataset and edit/move a line feature that is shared between two feature
classes, then both feature classes will be updated to reflect the edits.
4. This is massively helpful for keeping datasets synchronized. An example
would be a river feature that defines an administrative boundary (where
the river moves over time), or the boundary of a municipal area and
zoning polygons.
Que 4.5. Write a short note on the coverage of vector data.
Answer
Coverage of Vector Data :

1. A coverage is a georelational data model that stores vector data. It
contains both the spatial (location) and attribute (descriptive) data for
geographic features.
2. Coverages use a set of feature classes to represent geographic features.
Each feature class stores a set of points, lines (arcs), polygons, or
annotation (text).
3. Coverages can have topology, which determines the relationships
between features.
4. The coverage supports three basic topological relationships :

i. Connectivity : Arcs connect to each other at nodes.
ii. Area Definition : An area is defined by a series of connected arcs.
iii. Contiguity : Arcs have directions and left and right polygons.
Que 4.6. What do you mean by shapefile in GIS ?
Answer
Shape File in GIS :

1. A shapefile is a simple, non-topological data structure for storing the
geometric location and attribute in formation of geographic features.
2. Geographic features in a shape file can be represented by points, line,
or polygons (area).
3. However, unlike other simple graphic data structures, shapefile
polygons are represented by one or more rings.
4. A ring is a closed, non-self-intersecting loop. This structure can
represent complex structures, such as polygons, that contain “islands.”
5. The vertices of a ring maintain a consistent, clockwise order so that
the area to the right, as one “walks” along the ring boundary, is inside
the polygon, and the area to the left is outside the polygon.
6. Moreover, polygon features in shape file format can contain one or
more parts, so that distinct and overlapping features can be represented.
7. For example, an individual parcel that is split by a road can be
represented alternatively as two separate polygons with two rings and
two records in the attribute table or as one polygon with two parts and
one record in the attribute table.
8. A primary advantage of shapefiles is that this simple file structure
draws faster than a coverage does.
Que 4.7. Describe in brief of data models for composite features.
Answer
Data Models for Composite Features :

1. Composite features refer to those spatial features that are better
represented as composites of points, lines, and polygons.
2. Composite features include TINs (Triangulated Irregular Networks),
regions, and routes.
3. TIN : A TIN approximates the terrain with a set of non-overlapping

triangles.
4. Regions :
i. A region is a geographic area with similar characteristics.
ii. A data model for regions must be able to handle two spatial
characteristics.
iii. A region may have spatially joint or disjoint areas, and regions can
overlap or cover the same area.
5. Routes : A route is a linear feature such as a highway, a bike path, or
a stream but, unlike other linear features, a route has a measurement
system that allows linear measures to be used on a projected co-ordinate
system.
Que 4.8. Describe the objects based data of vector model.
Answer
Objects Based Data of Vector Model :

1. The object based data model treats spatial data as objects. It differs
from the georelational data model in two important aspects.
2. The object based data model stores both the spatial and attribute data
of spatial features in a single system.
3. The object based data model allows a spatial feature (object) to be
associated with a set of properties and methods.
4. An object based spatial database is a spatial database that stores the
location as objects. The object based spatial model treats the world as
surface littered with recognizable objects (e.g., cities, rivers), which
exist independent of their locations.
5. Objects can be simple as polygons and lines, or be more complex to
represent cities.
6. While a field-based data model sees the world as a continuous surface
over which features (e.g., elevation) vary, using an object based spatial
database, it is easier to store additional attributes with the objects,
such as direction, speed, etc.
7. Storing attributes with objects can provide better result presentation
and improved manipulation capabilities in a more efficient way.
8. In a field-based data model, this information is usually stored at different
layers and it is harder to extract different information from various
layers.
Que 4.9. What are the advantages and disadvantages of vector

data over raster data ?
Answer
1. Advantages of Vector Data Over Raster Data :

i. A vector database can depict point data as points which can be positioned
accurately. However, a raster database can depict point data only at
the level of the detail of a single cell. This leads to loss of accuracy.
ii. A vector database can show a line data in exact and fine detail, whereas
a raster database can show the same line as a zig-zag or a comparatively
more smooth line depending upon the resolution of the cell.
iii. A vector database provides details and exact and fine boundaries among
aerial patterns, e.g., land cover. However, in case of a raster database,
the accuracy is lost for the reason explained earlier.
iv. Discrete quantitative data such as population, which are grouped/
associated with an area, are best depicted in finer detail by polygons
(vector format). However, continuous data such as topographic
elevation and contours, represented by a network of equally spaced
observations, can probably be most directly presented by a raster
format.
v. A vector database is best suited to represent various natural/artificial
features and also these can be presented mathematically (co-ordinates).
This makes the vector format conceptually more complex than the
raster format.
vi. A vector database requires less storage space on the computer as
compared to a raster database for the same information. Also, the
vector formats are more accurate and present a finer detail of shapes
and sizes as compared to the raster format.
2. Disadvantages of Vector Data over Raster Data :
i. Vector formats sometimes prove costlier because of higher data-encoding
cost. Also, the programs for data manipulation are more complex as
compared to the raster format.
ii. In case of the vector format, the superimposition or overlaying of
different layers of data may be difficult because some polygons in
different layers may not match exactly due to minor digitization errors,
forming small slivers or strips.
Que 4.10. Explain how data can be converted from vector to raster
format.
Answer
Vector to Raster Conversion :

1. Vector to raster conversion is also referred to as coding.
2. Fig. 4.10.1(a) shows a vector data/format (map) of the vector
representation of the land-cover map overlaid or superimposed on a
raster of grid cells.
3. The size of these cells will depend upon the accuracy desired, time and
computing facility available.
4. Fig. 4.10.1(b) illustrates the raster representation of vector counter
parts of raster data using a coarse-resolution grid cell of the region of
the land-cover map and that using a finer-resolution grid cell is shown
in Fig. 4.10.1(c).
5. The finer-resolution grid renders depiction/storage of areas with greater
precision. Of course, the fine-resolution grid cell size will yield better
results but will demand more time and computing facility and results
in higher costs.
6. The vector counter parts of the raster data can be input by the four
methods. Of these, the presence/absence and dominant types are the
best method and are used depending upon the importance felt by the
user.
7. In the presence/absence method, for each grid cell, a decision is made
as to whether the selected entity exists at the centre of the given grid
cell or not.
8. In the presence/absence method, the cell is assigned a value
corresponding to the characteristics (vector location) of its centre.
9. Thus, for example, the centre of the cell (3, 4) is occupied by an orchard
and hence this cell is assigned the value O or 2, as shown in
Fig. 4.10.2(b). If it does not, it is ignored.
10. The cell in the precedence method is allotted a value corresponding to
the most important characteristics or precedence with respect to the
other characteristics present in it.
11. For example, in the cell (6, 3), there are three different characteristics,
viz., orchard, river and built-up area.
12. Though the river in this cell occupies the least area; it is the most
important among the three features, and also the liver cannot be
discontinuous.
13. Thus, among the three characteristics of this cell, the river is given
precedence over others and accordingly this cell is coded as R or 3, as
shown in Fig. 4.10.2(c).
14. In the dominant type of conversion or coding, each cell of a grid is

assigned a value corresponding to predominant characteristics of the
area within the cell.
15. For example, two different types of areas, viz., built-up area and orchard
occupy.
16. The cell is assigned the value B or 1, as shown in Fig. 4.10.2(d), because
the larger part (more than 50 percent) of the cell is occupied by buildings.
Built-up
area
Forest Built-up area : I, B

Orchard Orchard : O, 2
r
River : R, 3
ve
Ri
Built-up Forest : F, 4
area
(a) Vector representation of map over grid cell

B B B B B B B B B B B R F F F F
B B B B R R F F B B B B B B B B B B R F F F F F
B B B B B B B B B R F F F F F F
B B B B R F F F B B B B B B B B B R F F F F F F
B B B B B B B B B R F F F F F F
B B B O R F F F B B B B O O O O O R F F F F F F
B B B B O O O R R F F F F F F F
B O O R R F F F O O O O O O R B B F F F F F F F
O O O O O R B B B F F F F F F F
O O R B B F F F O O O O R B B B B F F F F F F F
O O O O R B B B B F F F F F F F
O R R B B F F F O O O R B B B B B B F F F F F F
O O O R B B B B B B B F F F F F
O R B B B B F F O O R B B B B B B B B F F F F F
R R B B B B B B B B B F F F F F
R B B B B B F F B B B B B B B B B B B B B F F F
(b) Coarse-resolution grid cell ( c) Fine-resolution grid cell
Fig. 4.10.1. Raster representation of land-cover map.
Built-up O or 2
area
(b) Presence/absence method (3, 4)
Forest or 3
Orchard R
r
ve
(c) Precedence method (6, 3)

Ri
Built-up
B or 1
area
(d) Dominant method (3, 3)
(a) Vector representation of map
overlaid on a coarse grid
Fig. 4.10.2. Data conversion from vector to raster format.
Que 4.11. What are the analytical capabilities of GIS ?
Answer
Analytical Capabilities of GIS :

1. Organisation : Map overlay analysis is the most important function it
is discussed in sections to follow :
i. The importance of data organisation can be revealed by a person who
has collected a large mass of data for any particular purpose.
ii. Data can be arranged in many ways, and unless the organisation
scheme is suitable for the application at hand, useful information can
not be easily extracted.
2. Visualisation :
i. Visualisation is achieved in GIS with colour and by specialised methods
using perspective, shadowing and other means.
ii. The graphical capabilities of computers are exploited by transforming
a table of data, for example, into a visual display through which the
spatial associations can be visualized.
iii. Complex relationship probably can be better understood by visual
display rather than from a table of data. Further a visual display can be
manipulated to give alternative views/representation of the data,
thereby enhancing the capability to analyse the anomalies and patterns
through GIS.
3. Combination :
i. The ability to merge spatial data sets from quite different sources their
manipulation and subsequent display can often lead to an understanding
and interpretation of spatial phenomena that are simply not apparent
when individual spatial data types are considered in isolation.
ii. The data measuring activity combines image data for a certain
geographic area with other reference data of the same area.
iii. The GIS operator may overlay multiple images of this area at different
dates is a technique used for identifying changes over time, for example,
monitoring of forest fire or spreading of disease in tree species.
iv. The process of combining layers of spatial data is sometimes called data
integration and can be carried out either by visualising composite
displays of various kinds, or with integration models that effectively
create a new map from two or more existing maps.
4. Prediction :
i. Prediction is one of the purposes of GIS. For example, a number of
data layers indicating population data in different regions of a city
along with the growth patterns and civic facilities might be combined
together to predict the future population at the desired time in different
parts of the city.
ii. Such a map may then be used as a basis for making city development
decisions.
iii. Prediction may sometimes also be a research exercise to explore the
outcome of making a particular set of assumptions, often with the
purpose of examining the performance of a model.
5. Queries :
i. Since GIS is a decision support system, performing queries on a GIS
database to retrieve information (data) is its essential part.
ii. Queries offer a method of data retrieval, and can be performed on data
that are part of the GIS database, or on new data produced as a result
of data analysis.
iii. These are useful at all stages of GIS analysis for checking the quality
of data and the results obtained.
iv. A GIS typically stores spatial and non-spatial (also called aspatial or
attribute) data in two separate files.
v. The GIS has capability to search and display spatial data based on
attribute criteria and vice-versa.
vi. Accordingly, there are two general types of query that can be performed
with GIS : spatial and non-spatial.
6. Reclassification :
i. Although query is the most widely used function to retrieve data from
a GIS database , irrespective of the vector or raste r mode l,
reclassification can also be used in place of query in the raster model.
ii. Consider a land-use image from which we require to extract information
on areas of schools.
iii. The answer to this query could be obtained by creating a new coverage
that eliminates all unnecessary data.
iv. Reclassification would result in a new image. For example, in a raster
image, if cells representing schools in the original image had a value of
30, a set of rules for the reclassification could be :
a. Cells with values 30 (schools) should take the new value of 1.

b. Cells with values other than 30 should take the new value of 0.
PART-2
Data Model : Classes and their Relationships, the Geobased
Data Model, Geometric Representation of Spatial Feature
and Structure, Topology Rules.
Questions-Answers
Que 4.12. What is a data model ? Explain the data models used in
GIS.
Answer
A. Data Model :
1. The ways of representing data are known as data models. The data
model represents the linkages between the real-world domain of
geographical data and the computer (or GIS representation of the features).
2. The process of linkages involves :
i. Identifying the spatial features from the real-world that are of interest
in the context to an application and choosing how to represent them in
a conceptual model.
ii. Representing the conceptual model by an appropriate data model by
choosing between raster or vector approach.
iii. Selecting an appropriate spatial data structure to store the model within
the computer.
B. Types of Data Model : Following are two types of data model :
1. Object-based Data Model :
i. In Object-based data model, the geographic space is treated to be filled
by discrete and identifiable objects.
ii. An object which is a spatial feature, has identifiable boundaries, relevance
to some intended application, and can be described by one or more
characteristic knows as attributes.
iii. The spatial objects may be classified as :

a. Exact objects.
b. Inexact objects of fuzzy entities.
2. Field-based Data Model :
i. The field-based data model treats geographic space as populated by one
or more spatial phenomena of real-world features varying continuously
over space with no obvious or specific extent.
ii. Data for spatial phenomena structured as fields, can be acquired either
directly or indirectly by aerial photography, remote sensing, map
scanning, and field measurements made at selected or sampled locations,
such as topographic data for Triangulated Irregular Networks (TIN).
Que 4.13. What is the difference between the object-based and field-
based data models ?
Answer
Difference : Following are the difference between object and field data
models :
S. No. Object-based Data Model Field-based Data Model

1. It deals with object oriented It deals with entitles at the data
blue print of the system. base level.
2. It defines how the application It defines the table and fields that
interacts with the will store each individual piece of
information received from data.
an external source.
3. A vector data structure is a A raster data structure is a field
computer implementation of based implementation.
an object based ontology.
Que 4.14. Write a short note on geometric representation of spatial

feature of data model.
Answer
Geometric Representation of Spatial Feature :
1. Uses geometries of point, polyline, and polygon to represent vector-
based spatial features :
i. Point : Simple feature with a point or multipoint feature with a set of
points.
ii. Polyline : Set of line segments which may or may not be connected.
iii. Polygon : Made of one or many rings.
iv. Ring : Set of connected, closed, non-intersecting line segments.
2. The geodatabase is similar to the shapefile in terms of feature
geometries.
3. The geodatabase is also similar to the coverage model in terms of simple
features.
4. The difference between two models lies mainly in the composite features
of regions and routes.
5. The region sub-class in the coverage model is no longer supported in the
geodatabase. Multipart polygon handles the issue related to region.
6. The route sub-class in the coverage model is replace by polylines with
m(measure) values in geodatabase model.
Que 4.15. What are the advantages of geodatabase ?
Answer
Advantages of the Geodatabase : Following are the advantages of

geodatabase :
1. The hierarchical structure of a geodatabase is useful for data
organization and management.
2. The geodatabase, which is part of arc objects, can take advantage of
object-oriented technology.
3. The geodatabase offers on-the-fly topology, applicable to features within
a feature class or between two or more participating feature classes.
4. Thousands of objects, properties, and methods in arc objects are available
for GIS users to develop customized applications.
5. Arc objects provide a template for custom objects to be developed for
different industries and applications.
Que 4.16. What are the topology rules in data model ?
Answer
Following are the rules of topology in data model :

1. Polygon must not overlap, must not have gaps, must not overlap with,
must be covered by feature class of, must cover each other, must be
covered by, boundary must be covered by, area boundary must be covered
by boundary of, and contains point.
2. Line must not overlap, must not intersect, must not have dangles, must
not have pseudo-nodes, must not intersect or touch interior, must not
overlap with, must be covered by feature class of, must be covered by
boundary of, endpoint must be covered by, must not self overlap,
must not self intersect, and must be single part.
3. Point must be covered by boundary of, must be properly inside polygons,
must be covered by endpoint of, and must be covered by line.
Que 4.17. Discuss the data quality of GIS.
Answer
Data Quality of GIS :

1. Flaws in data are usually referred to as errors. Error is the physical
difference between the real world and the GIS facsimile. Errors may be
single, definable departures from reality, or may be persistent, widespread
deviations throughout a whole database.
2. Accuracy is the extent to which an estimated data value approaches its
true value. If a GIS database is accurate, it is a true representation of
reality. It is impossible for a GIS database to be 100 % accurate, though
it is possible to have data that are accurate to within specified tolerances.
3. Precision is the recorded level of detail of the data. A co-ordinate in
metres to the nearest ten decimal places is more precise than one
specified to the nearest three decimal places. Computers store data with
a high level of precision, though a high level of precision does not imply
a high level of accuracy.
4. Resolution is the term used to describe the smallest feature in a data set
that can be displayed or mapped. In raster GIS, resolution is determined
by cell size. For example, for a raster data set with a 20 m cell size, only
those features that are 20 m × 20 m or larger can be distinguished. At
this resolution it is possible to map large features such as fields, lakes

and urban areas but not individual trees or telegraph poles.
5. Generalization is the process of simplifying the complexities of the real
world to produce scale models and maps. Cartographic generalization is
a subject in itself and is the cause of many errors in GIS data derived
from maps. It is the subjective process by which the cartographer
selectively removes the enormous detail of the real world in order to
make it understandable and attractive in map form.
6. Completeness : A complete data set covers the study area and the time
period of interest in its entirety. The data should be complete spatially
and temporally, and should have a complete set of attribute information.
7. Compatibility data sets can be used together sensibly. With GIS it is
possible to overlay two maps, one originally mapped at scale of 1:500000
and the other at 1:25000. The result, however, is largely worthless
because of incompatibility between the scales of the source documents.
8. Consistency applies not only to separate data sets but also within
individual data sets. Inconsistencies can occur within data sets where
sections have come from different source documents or have been
digitized by different people. This will cause spatial variation in the error
characteristics of the final data layer.

Q. 1. Explain vector data model.

Q. 2. What are the three basic spatial entities and how are these
used to portray geographical features on paper maps and
in GIS ?
Q. 3. What is topology and why it is important in GIS ?

Q. 4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of vector data

over raster data ?
Q. 5. Explain how data can be converted from vector to raster

format.
Q. 6. What is a data model ? Explain the data models used in

GIS.
Q. 7. What is the difference between the object-based and field-

based data models ?

5
UNIT
Raster Data Model
CONTENTS
Part-1 : Raster Data Model ......................................5–2H to 5–8H
Elements of Raster
Data Model,
Types of Raster Data,
Raster Data Structure,
Data Conversion
Part-2 : Integration of Raster and ....................... 5–8H to 5–17H

Vector Data : Data Input :
Metadata : Conversion of
Existing Data, Creating
New Data, Remote Sensing
Data, Field Data, Digitizing,
Scanning on Screen
Digitizing, Importance of
Source Map, Data Editing
Raster Data Model 5–2 H (CE-Sem-5)
PART-1
Raster Data Model, Elements of Raster Data Model, Types of
Raster Data, Raster Data Structure, Data Conversion.
Questions-Answers
Que 5.1. Define the raster data model. What are the elements of
raster data model ?
Answer
A. Raster Data Model :

1. The raster data model divides the geographic space into a regular grid
of cells in specific sequence (row-column structure).
2. As in a traditional raster image, the X-axis is the column indicator and
the Y-axis is the row indicator.
3. Not only geographic data, but other pictorial data can also be represented
and stored in a computer as raster. For example, a digital photograph of
one's pet; this is not a geographic or geospatial data but a raster.
4. For this reason, raster images representing geographically referenced
spatial data are named as georaster by some people.
5. Raster data are also referred to as raster image. The cells which make
a raster can be compared with the pixels. Each cell in the raster contains
a single value. This value can be a reference to another value, but the
idea is that each cell has just a single value, and it is assumed that the
value is distributed evenly throughout the cell.
6. The raster cell size is an important factor. Smaller cell improve data
quality because they can provide more detail. As cell size increases,
data definition decreases or blurs.
7. Conceptually, raster models are the simplest of available spatial data
models. We can create a raster of elevation values by encoding each
cell with a value that represents the elevation which best represents
the elevation in that cell’s area.
B. Elements of Raster Data Model : Following are the elements of
raster data model :
1. Cell Value : Each cell in a raster carries a value, which represents the
characteristic of a spatial phenomenon at the location denoted by its
row and column. The cell value can be integer or floating point.
2. Cell Size : The cell size determines the resolution of the raster data
model.
3. Raster Bands : A raster may have a single band or multiple bands.
4. Spatial Reference : Raster data must have the spatial reference
information so that they can align spatially with other data sets in a
GIS.
Que 5.2. Describe the different types of raster data.
Answer
Types of Raster Data : Following are the types of raster data :

1. Satellite Imagery :
i. Remotely sensed satellite data are recorded in raster format.
ii. The pixel value in a satellite image represents light energy reflected or
emitted from the Earth’s surface.
iii. Land use, land cover and hydrography can be classified from image
processing system.
iv. Satellite images can be displayed in black and white or in colour.
2. Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) :
i. DEM consists of an array of uniformly spaced elevation data.
ii. DEM is produced from :
a. A stereo-plotter and aerial photograph with overlapping areas.
b. Satellite imagery such as SPOT stereo-model using special
software.
3. Digital Orthophotos :
i. Prepared from aerial photograph or other remotely sensed data.
ii. Displacement caused by camera tilt and terrain relief has been removed.
iii. They are geo-referenced and can be registered with topographic and
other maps.
4. Binary Scanned Files :
i. Scanned image containing values of 1 and 0.
ii. Maps to be digitized are typically scanned at 300 or 400 dpi (dots per
inch).
5. Graphic Files : Maps, photographs and images can be stored as digital
graphic files.
i. TIFF (Tagged Image File Format), GIF Graphic Interchangeable
Format), JPEG (Joint Photographic Exports Group), etc., are the
graphic files.
ii. Geo-TIFF is a geo-referenced version of TIFF format.
Que 5.3. Describe the raster data structures.
Answer
Raster Data Structures :

1. Raster data structures are also called cellular data structures depicts
the real world by pixels or grid cells.
2. It is not an accurate or flexible as the vector format, as each co-ordinate
may be represented by a cell and each line by an array of cells.
3. Raster data can be positioned only on the nearest grid cell. Examples of
data in the raster format are aerial photographs, satellite imagery and
scanned maps or plans.
4. Examples of data in the raster format are aerial photographs, satellite
imagery and scanned maps or plans.
5. For the input of raster data, first the region of interest is sub-divided
into a network of cells of uniform size and shape.
6. The linear dimensions of each cell define the spatial resolution of data
or the precision with which the data is represented. Thus, the size of
an individual pixel or cell is determined by the size of the smallest
object in the geographic space to be represented.
7. A general rule is that the grid size should be less than half the size of
the MMU.
8. Once the grid cell size has been decided, each grid cell is assigned a
value which can be an integer, a floating point number, or a character.
9. A raster data along with characteristics is shown in Fig. 5.3.1. The
values marked indicate the quantity, or characteristics of the spatial
object, or phenomenon that is found at the location of the cell.
10. The input of the vector counter parts of this raster data is also shown
in Fig. 5.3.1. The value 3 has been to classify the raster cells according
to land use for the road at the given location.
11. The remaining cells are filled with 0 indicating that no identity is present
at that location.
12. There are four methods for the input of the vector counter parts of the
raster data. These are the dominant method, the precedence method,
the presence/absence method and the percent occurrence method.
Co-ordinates reference
of starting point of feature
Column No.
Row No. Pixel
Cell values Spatial unit
Representation of identity
Spatial resolution Not present : 0
Co-ordinate
Road : 3 or R
reference of end point
(a) Different attributes stored in different layer
6, 6, 3
0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0
0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0
0 3 3 3 0 0 0 3 3 3 0 0
0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0
0 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 0 3 3 0
0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0
(b) Cell values (c) File structure
Fig. 5.3.1. E-R diagram for University System.
Que 5.4. Write are the functioning of raster model.
Answer
Functioning of Raster Model : Following are the various types

function of raster model :
1. The pixels are the result of computing the data through aerial
photograph or throughout the satellite imaging.
2. The colours and tones of the image are computed by assigning the
unique numerical codes.
3. The digital number (DN) values of each one of the pixel and a cell has
only one DN.
4. At present eight bit data is used by the new software. It allows up to
256 number i.e., from 0 to 255.
Que 5.5. Discuss the methods to represent the raster data.
Answer
Methods to Represent the Raster Data :

The raster data can be represented by four different methods (ways) :
A. Real World Model : It is associated with specific real-world models, to
represent the real world.
B. Image Scanning : It has the digital scans of maps and drawings,
which is created with the methods of compilation.
C. Digital Satellite Data : It does the compilation of the digital satellite
image data.
D. Drawing : By using the raster output unit the automatic drawing is
presented :
i. In this model, the reality is represented by regular, uniform, square or
rectangular cells. The squares, look like grid of squares. So they are
also called as ‘a grid model’.
ii. The cells are identified in rows and columns (location is expected of
any cell by column and row numbers.
iii. The ‘zero’ row and column is at the upper left of the raster grid (this
location is defined in different ways in different software’s.
iv. These cells represent ‘area’ and not a point on the earth surface, so
they are not to be used for giving precise measurement.
v. By giving the real surface values to the pixels, the model is produced.
These values are comprised of the attribute objects which are
represented by the cells.
vi. Any single cell is assigned only one single value, so the dissimilar
objects are assigned to different raster layers.
vii. Each of these layers represents a group of objects, with a specific

theme like settlement or gross land or water bodies etc. Because the
raw and column numbers are fixed, the location of neighbouring cells
can be calculated very easily.
Que 5.6. Write a short note on data conversion.
Answer
Raster to Vector Conversion :

1. In this conversion, the cells of the raster through which the vector line
(e.g., river, boundaries of buildings, roads, etc.) passes are identified.
2. Then the line (vector form) connecting these cells is drawn.
3. One way is to connect the centres of cells with straight line segments.
4. Obviously, this will produce a zig-zag line, whereas in nature this line
would be a smooth one.
5. So, either curve-fitting is required or the cell size is to be reduced to
extract/draw a smooth line passing through the cells.
6. The first method involves complicated mathematical calculations, which
does not necessarily give a unique solution.
7. Either of the methods would require large capacity computers as well
as time.
8. Even after this, the line drawn, using raster data, may not exactly
match with the actual feature present in nature.
9. This conversion of data from raster to vector model is illustrated in
Fig. 5.6.1.
(a) Cells of Fig. 1 (b) Cell centres (c) Vector representation

that identify the river of river recreated by connecting
adjacent cell centers
Fig. 5.6.1. Raster to vector conversion.

10. In case if the vector data is converted to raster data and then again
converted back to the vector data, the resultant data set will not likely
match with the original one. This is specifically true in case of boundaries
of different common data or linear features.
PART-2
Integration of Raster and Vector Data : Data Input : Meta-data :
Conversion of Existing Data, Creating New Data, Remote Sensing
Data, Field Data, Digitizing, Scanning on Screen Digitizing,
Importance of Source Map, Data Editing.
Questions-Answers
Que 5.7. Write a short note on Integration of raster and vector

data.
Answer
Integration of Raster and Vector Data :
1. The major impediment for integration of remote sensing with GIS
remains the so-called raster/vector dichotomy.
2. Remote sensing has been oriented almost completely towards a raster
approach to data and analysis, while GIS software has tended to be
vector oriented.
3. From the perspective of GIS users, it is recognized that there are
advantages and disadvantages to both data representations.
4. Remote sensing users, on the other hand, while recognizing the merits
of vector information for handling cartographic information, have
concentrated largely on raster analysis for image processing.
5. There are good reasons for this the CPU processing burden for image
analysis is sufficiently high that raster data structures are the only
feasible choice on low-speed hardware platform.
6. Furthermore, since detectors produce raster digital information
directly, raster processing seems “natural”.
7. More generally, research on human vision and perception has led to a

model of spatial information extraction, object recognition, and predicate
manipulation that is constructed as a three level integrated raster-
vector processing system.
Que 5.8. What are the uses of raster data model ?
Answer
Uses of Raster Data Model : Following are the uses of raster data
model :
1. Geographical variation in the real world is infinitely complex.
2. The closer you look the more detail you see, almost without limit.
3. It would take an infinitely large database to capture the real world
precisely.
4. Raster grid cells allow us to approximate the variation over a landscape.
5. Data must somehow be reduced to a finite and manageable quantity
by a process of generalization or abstraction.
6. Geographical variation must be represented in terms of discrete
elements or objects.
Que 5.9. What are the advantages and disadvantage of raster

data model ?
Answer
1. Advantages : Following are the advantages of raster data model :

i. Simple data structure.
ii. Spatial analysis is easier.
iii. Compatible with remote sensing imagery.
iv. Simulation is easy because each unit has the same size and shape.
2. Disadvantages :
i. The cell size determines the resolution at which the data is represented.
ii. Require a lot of storage space.
iii. Projection transformations are time consuming.
iv. Network linkages are difficult to establish.
Que 5.10. What do you understand by existing GIS data and their
conversion ?
Answer
A. Existing GIS Data :

1. To find existing GIS data for a project is often a matter of knowledge,
experience and luck.
2. Since the early 1990s, government agencies at different levels in the
US as well as other countries have set up websites for sharing pubic
data.
3. The Internet is also a medium for finding existing data from NPO and
private companies.
B. Conversion of Existing GIS Data :
1. Data conversion is defined as a mechanism for converting GIS data
from one format to another.
2. It can be easy or difficult; it depends upon the specialty of the data
formats :
i. Proprietary data formats require special translators for data conversion.
ii. Whereas neutral or public formats require a GIS package that has
translators to work with the formats.
Que 5.11. Explain the types of conversion of existing GIS data.
Answer
Types of Conversion of Existing Data : Basically two types of

convert process are used for conversion of any existing GIS data :
A. Direct Translation :
1. It uses a translator in a GIS package to directly convert geospatial data
from one format to another. It is easier to use than other methods.
2. ArcToolbox in ArcGIS can Translate :
i. Arclnfo’s interchange files >b – AutoCAD's DXF.
ii. DWG files and Maplnfo files into shapefiles or geodatabases.
Likewise, GeoMedia can access and integrate data from :
a. ArcGIS.
b. AutoCAD.
c. Maplnfo etc.
B. Neutral Format :
1. It is a public format for data exchange :
i. DLG format developed by USGS.
ii. SDTS format approved by the Federal Information Processing
Standards (FIPS) Program in 1992. Also known as SDTS/DLG files.
iii. ESRI, Intergraph and Maplnfo provide translators in their software
packages for importing SDTS data.
2. Currently there are five SDTS profiles :
i. The Topographical Vector Profile (TVP) covers DLG, TIGER and other
topology-based vector data.
ii. The Raster Profile and Extensions (RPE) accommodate DEM and other
raster data.
iii. The Transportation Network Policy (TNP) comes with vector data with
network topology.
iv. The Point Profile supports geodetic control point data.
v. The Computer Aided Design and Drafting Profile (CADD).
vi. Supports vector-based CADD data, with or without topology.
Que 5.12. What do you mean by remote sensing data ?
Answer
Remote Sensing Data :

1. Remote sensors collect data by detecting the energy that is reflected
from Earth. These sensors can be on satellites or mounted on aircraft.
2. Remote sensors can be either passive or active. Passive sensors respond
to external stimuli.
3. They record natural energy that is reflected or emitted from the Earth’s
surface.
4. The most common source of radiation detected by passive sensors is
reflected sunlight.
5. In contrast, active sensors use internal stimuli to collect data about
Earth.
6. For example, a laser-beam remote sensing system projects a laser onto

the surface of Earth and measures the time that it takes for the laser
to reflect back to its sensor.
Que 5.13. Describe the digitizing in GIS.
Answer
Digitizing in GIS :
1. Digitizing is the process by which co-ordinates from a map, image, or
other sources of data are converted into a digital format in a GIS.
2. This process becomes necessary when available data is gathered in
formats that cannot be immediately integrated with other GIS data.
The Digitizing Process : Following are the digitizing process :
1. Manual Digitizing :
i. In this method, the digitizer uses a digitizing tablet (also known as a
digitizer, graphics tablet, or touch tablet) to trace the points, lines and
polygons of a hard-copy map.
ii. This is done using a special magnetic pen, or stylus, that feeds
information into a computer to create an identical, digital map.
iii. Some tablets use a mouse-like tool, called a puck, instead of a stylus.
iv. The puck has a small window with cross-hairs which allows for greater
precision and pinpointing map features.
2. Heads-up Digitizing :
i. This method involves scanning a map or image into a computer.
ii. The digitizer then traces the points, lines and polygons using digitizing
software.
iii. This method of digitizing has been named “heads-up” digitizing because
the focus of the user is up on the screen, rather than down on a
digitizing tablet.
Que 5.14. Write a note on data acquisition. What are the various
sources from which data can be derived to be used in GIS ?
Answer
Data Acquisition :
1. Data acquisition is collecting spatial data from available resources e.g.,
maps, photographic images and converting it into digital form.
2. Data which is already in digital form can be recorded directly.

3. The method for acquisition of data depends on factors such as location,
size of area of interest, the purpose of terrain modeling and the technical
resources available.
Sources : Data can be acquired from any of the following sources :
1. Data from Satellites Remote Sensing :
i. The terrain data acquired through sensors, abroad satellite platforms
being in digital format can be directly used, and processed, for preparing
a GIS database.
ii. This data is coded in picture elements called pixels and stored in the
form of a two dimensional matrix, that contains merely a number
representing the amount of the reflected EM radiation received in a
band.
iii. The digital images must be located properly with respect to a geodetic
grid, otherwise the data they contain, cannot be related to their true
ground positions.
iv. Suitable for large areas.
2. Digital Data by GPS :
i. GPS is a satellite based surveying system which gives highly accurate
digital terrain data electronically in the form of (x, y, z) co-ordinates.
ii. There are two methods of GPS measurements (i) Static (ii) Differential.
iii. Static GPS is mainly employed for establishing geodetic control and
measuring national and international networks and not for ordinary
terrain data acquisition.
iv. Differential GPS surveying is used to determine the positions and heights
of ground points by making use of existing or newly established control
points.
v. Differential GPS surveying may be performed as a kinematic GPS
surveying or real time GPS surveying.
vi. GPS is a very productive tool for acquiring digital terrain data in field
where the necessary is available and sky is visible.
3. Data from Internet (World-Wide Web) :
i. Internet is a vast network of digital computers which are linked together
through a satellite and radio links and fibre optic, different data
transmission media e.g., telephone lines through which transfer of
terrain data is carried out.
ii. WWW (World Wide Web) is a term used synonymously with the internet.
iii. For GIS users the WWW provides data and is source of information.
iv. Whole libraries of vector, raster and object data are being offered on the
internet as well as directory information on different data sets. At the
moment speed of data transmission and internet access are the main
limitations of this data source.
4. Data by Aerial Photography :
i. This method is used when area is too extensive and too rugged.
ii. A digital photogrammetric work station (DPWS) which produces digital
images include the hardware, software and peripherals such as digital
camera, film scanners, plotters. In it the plotter is able to visualize,
verify and edit the data collected interactively.
iii. Digital terrain data can be collected from photogrammetry by using an
analog stereoplotter equipped with encoders, analytical plotter or by
using digital photogrammetry method.
iv. Analog stereoplotter provides 3 dimensional data from aerial
photographs.
5. Data from Existing Maps :
i. Acquiring digital data by digitizing existing maps is comparatively cheaper
and less time consuming.
ii. Topographic maps covering large part of a country are mostly available.
iii. Geocoding is the process of converting conventional (non-digital) maps
into digital form.
iv. The digitisation of paper maps is done using a spatial data capturing
device called “a digitizer”. Digitizers are available in different sizes with
different resolutions.
v. Another method of converting existing maps into digitised maps is by
scanning and vectorisation often referred as “screen digitising” or “heads
up digitising”. Large number of maps can be digitised in relative shorter
period and at a cost comparable or lower than the convention method.
6. Data by Surveying in Field :
i. Terrain data in digital form can be obtained directly from field surveys
using electronic tacheometer, total stations.
ii. These instruments are equipped with internal memory or external data
recorder for temporary storage of data, which are subsequently
transferred to micro computer or main frame computer.
iii. Electronic tacheometer or total station is capable of electronically
measuring angles, distances and performing computations to obtain
ho rizontal distance, slope distance, differe nce in ele vatio n,
co-ordinates etc.
Que 5.15. Write a short note on data editing of raster data ?
Answer
Raster data editing is concerned with correcting the specific contents
of raster images than their general geometric characteristics. The
objective of the editing is to produce an image suitable for raster geo-
processing. Following editing functions are mostly used for raster data
editing :
i. Filling Holes and Gaps : To fill holes and gaps that appears in the
raster image.
Hole
Fig. 5.15.1.
ii. Edge Smoothing : To remove or fill single pixel irregularities in the

foreground pixels and background pixels along lines.
Irregular edges
Fig. 5.15.2.
iii. Deskewing : To rotate the image by a small angle so that it is aligned

orthogonally to the x and y axes of the computer screen.
Skewed Deskewed image

Fig. 5.15.3.
iv. Filtering : To remove speckles or the random high or low valued

pixels in the image.
Speckles
Filtered
Fig. 5.15.4.
v. Clipping and Delete : To create a subset of an image or to remove
unwanted pixels.
Clipped
Fig. 5.15.5.
Que 5.16. What are the applications of GIS ?
Answer
Major application areas of GIS as follows :
Academic : i. Research in engineering, science and humanities.
ii. Primary and secondary schools––schools district

delineation, facilities, management, bus routing,
spatial digital libraries.
Industry : i. Engineering—surveying and mapping, site and

landscape development, pavement management.
ii. Transportation—route selection for goods delivery,

public transit, vehicle tracking.
iii. Utilities and communications—electricity and gas

distributio n, pipe line s tele co mmunicatio n
networks.
iv. Forestry—forest resource inventory, harvest

planning, wildlife management and conservation.
v. Mining and mineral exploration.
vi. System consulting and integration.

Business : i. Banking and insurance.
ii. Real estate—development project planning and

management, sales and renting services, building
management.
iii. Retail and market analysis.
iv. Delivery of goods and services.

Government : i. Central go ve rnment—natio nal topo graphic
mapping, re so urce and e nviro nme ntal
management, weather service s, public land
management, population census, election, and
voting.
ii. State government—surveying and mapping, land

and resources management, highway planning and
management.
iii. Lo cal/municipal gove rnment—social and

community development, land registration and
property assessment, water and wastewater
services.
iv. Public safety and law enforcement—crime analysis,

deployment of human resources, community
policing, emergency planning and management.
v. Health care.
vi. International development and humanitarian relief.
Military : i. Training.
ii. Command and control.
iii. Intelligence gathering.

Q. 1. Describe the different types of raster data.

Q. 2. Write are the functioning of raster model.

Q. 3. Write a short note on data conversion.

Q. 4. What are the advantages and disadvantage of raster data

model ?
Q. 5. Write a note on data acquisition. What are the various

sources from which data can be derived to be used in GIS ?
Q. 6. What are the applications of GIS ?


GIS and Advance Remote Sensing SQ–1 H (CE-Sem-5)
1 Photogrammetry
(2 Marks Questions)
1.1. Explain stereoscopy.

Ans. Stereoscopy is a technique for creating or enhancing the illusion
of depth in an image by means of stereoscope for binocular vision.
1.2. Define the term ‘stereoscope’.

Ans. To apply the principle of depth perception to aerial photographs,
an instrument is used known as stereoscope. A stereoscope is a
device for viewing a stereoscopic pair of separate images, depicting
left-eye and right-eye views of the same scene, as a single 3D
image.
1.3. How aerial photographs are taken ?

Ans. Aerial photographs are taken with the help of camera mounted
on aircraft, flying along predetermined lines called flight lines and
at predetermined height generally at regular interval.
1.4. What is flight planning ?

Ans. Flight planning is the process of producing a flight plan to describe
a proposed aircraft flight. It involves two safety critical aspects : fuel
calculation and compliance with air traffic control requirements.
1.5. Define aerial survey.

Ans. Aerial survey is a method of collecting geomatics or other imagery
by using air planes, helicopters, UAVs, balloons or other aerial
methods.
1.6. Mention the different types of aerial survey.

Ans. Following are the types of aerial survey :
i. Terrestrial photography.
ii. Aerial photography.
1.7. What are the different types of aerial photograph ?

Ans. Aerial photograph is divided, depending upon the angle between
the axis of camera and the vertical axis, as follows :
i. Vertical photograph.
ii. Tilted photograph.
2 Marks Questions SQ–2 H (CE-Sem-5)
iii. Oblique photograph.

iv. Convergent photograph.
v. Trimetrogon photograph.
1.8. Define terrestrial photograph.

Ans. It is the photograph taken from ground station. The instrument
used is phototheodolite which is a theodolite mounted on a camera
with its axis horizontal or nearly horizontal.
1.9. What is vertical photograph ?

Ans. It is a one, in which the optical axis of the camera is vertical or
nearly vertical. A truly vertical photograph resembles a map,
through a vertical photograph can be rarely obtained.
1.10. Give any three advantages that aerial photography offers

over ground based observations.
Ans. Following are the advantages of aerial photography :
i. Inaccessible areas.
ii. Mountainous region with less vegetation.
iii. Mapping large areas is faster and economical.
1.11. What are the disadvantages of aerial photography ?

Ans. Following are the disadvantages of aerial photography :
i. Not economical for survey of small areas.
ii. Not suitable for dense forests and flat sands due to difficulty of
identifying objects upon the photograph.
1.12. Define fiducial marks.
Ans. To provide reference lines for the measurement of image distances,
four marks are provided at the corners. These are called fiducial
marks.
1.13. What is fiducial lines ?

Ans. The lines joining the opposite fiducial marks are called fiducial
lines.
1.14. Define azimuth.

Ans. It is the horizontal angle measured in clockwise direction from
north meridian to the principal plane. It is also called azimuth of
the photograph.
1.15. What do you mean by relief displacement ?

Ans. The displacement on a photograph between the image of any
ground point and its image, if the point is projected to a datum
plane is the displacement caused by the topographic relief or
elevation and is called relief displacement.
1.16. Explain parallax.

Ans. Parallax is a displacement or difference in the apparent position of
an object viewed along two different lines of sight, and is measured
by the angle or semi-angle of inclination between those two lines.
1.17. What is the use of parallax bar ?

Ans. It is used to measure the parallax difference between two points.
The difference in parallax of two points is called parallax difference.
1.18. What are the advantages of digital photogrammetry ?

Ans. Following are the advantages of digital photogrammetry :
i. It facilitates direct production of digital maps.
ii. It can handle inputs from other non-traditional sources such as
LIDAR, digital camera output, etc.
iii. It does not require any periodic maintenance except in two types
of instruments.

2 Remote Sensing
(2 Marks Questions)
2.1. What do you understand by remote sensing ?

Ans. Remote sensing is the process of acquiring information about an
object, area or phenomenon without coming in contact of it. Aerial
photography is also called remote sensing.
2.2. Which type of energy is used in remote sensing ?

Ans. Electromagnetic energy, i.e., light energy is used for remote
sensing.
2.3. What is spectral signature ?

Ans. The patterns are average d to ge t ge neral refle ctance
characteristics of the object over different wavelength intervals.
Representation of such averaged reflectance is called spectral
signature.
2.4. What is resolution of a sensor ?

Ans. Resolution is the ability of remote sensing system to record
information of the smallest clearly separable quantity in terms of
size (spatial), wavelength band of electromagnetic radiation
(spectral), radiation strength, and time.
2.5. Mention the types of resolution.

Ans. Following are the types of resolution :
i. Spatial resolution.
ii. Spectral resolution.
iii. Radiometric resolution.
iv. Temporal resolution.
2.6. Classify satellites.

Ans. The satellites can be divided into two categories :
i. Geo-stationary satellites (Geo-synchronous satellites).
ii. Sun-synchronous satellites.
2.7. How will you define an orbit ?

Ans. It is the path followed by a satellite in space. It can be circular or

elliptical. Orbit can vary in terms of altitude, their orientation/
inclination in relation to the Earth.
2.8. What are the characteristics of ideal remote sensing

system ?
Ans. Following are the characteristics of ideal remote sensing system :
i. Uniform electromagnetic energy source.
ii. Series of unique energy.
iii. Non-interfering atmosphere.
iv. Super sensor.
2.9. Discuss the data products which are used in remote

sensing.
Ans. Following are the uses of data product in remote sensing :
i. Photographs. ii. Mosaics.
iii. Orthophoto. iv. Digital image.
2.10. Give classification of selective scattering.

Ans. Following are the two types of scattering :
i. Rayleigh scattering. ii. Mie scattering.
2.11. Differentiate the active and passive sensors.

Ans.
S. No. Active Sensors Passive Sensors
i. Senso rs which pro duce Sensors which do not produce their
their own electromagnetic own electromagnetic energy but
e nergy of spe cific sense natural radiations are passive
wavelength. sensors.
ii. Example : Flash Example : Available light
photography, radar, etc. photography sensing during bright
sunlight.
2.12. What is geo-synchronous satellite ?
Ans. A geo-synchronous satellite is a satellite in geo-synchronous orbit,
with an orbital period the same as the Earth’s rotation period.
Such a satellite returns to the same position in the sky after each
sidereal day, and over the course of a day traces out a path in the
sky that is typically some form of analemma.
2.13. What is sun-synchronous satellite ?

Ans. A sun-synchronous satellite is a satellite in sun-synchronous orbit
(SSO), travelling over the polar regions, are synchronous with
sun. This means they are synchronised to always be in the same
‘fixed’ position relative to the sun.
2.14. Distinguish between a camera and a sensor.

Ans.
S. No. Camera Sensor
i. Simple construction. Complex construction.
ii. It can be ground borne, air It is gene rally space borne
bo rne o r space bo rne platforms.
platforms.
iii. Framing system. Scanning system.
2.15. Give the applications of Indian Remote Sensing (IRS).

Ans. Application : Imagery taken by Indian Remote Sensing (IRS)
satellite has found application in diverse fields ranging from
agriculture to urban planning.
Example : Crop health monitoring, Crop yield estimation and
drought assessment.
2.16. Differentiate the active and passive remote sensing system.

OR
What do you mean by active and passive remote sensing ?
Ans.
S. No. Active RSS Passive RSS
1. It generates and uses its own They depend on solar radiation to

energy to illuminate the target illuminate the target.
and records the reflected
energy.
2. These systems operate in the They operate in the visible and
micro wave re gio n o f the infrare d regio n of the
electromagnetic spectrum. electromagnetic spectrum.
3. Their wavelengths are longer Their wavelengths range from 0.4
than one mm. to 10 m.
4. Example : Synthetic aperture Example : Any electromagnetic
radar. remote sensing system (Camera
without flash light).
2.17. Define spectral reflectance curve and what are its utilities
in remote sensing. AKTU 2015-16, Marks 02
OR
Explain spectral reflectance curve.
AKTU 2016-17, Marks 02
Ans. Spectral Reflectance Curve : It is a graph between spectral

reflectance of an object versus wavelength.
Utilities : Spectral reflectance curves are used to compare the
aerial photograph taken with them to assess what feature exists
at any location in an aerial photograph.

3 GIS and Advance

Remote Sensing
(2 Marks Questions)
3.1. Define the term ‘GIS’.

Ans. GIS is a system of hardware, software, and procedures designed
to support the capture management, manipulation, analysis,
modeling and display of spatially referenced data for solving
complex planning and management problems.
3.2. What is database ?

Ans. It is a collection of data regarding different objects, phenomenon,
themes, etc.
3.3. Discuss about thematic maps.

Ans. These are the maps which show one theme e.g., natural resources,
drainage system, water distribution system.
3.4. Discuss the advantages of GIS.

Ans. Following are the advantages of GIS :
i. GIS can handle spatially referenced, multi layered, heterogeneous
huge data.
ii. GIS can process the data with high speed and produce output
almost in no time and can answer allied queries related to the
topic.
3.5. What are the components of GIS ?

Ans. Following are the types of component of GIS :
i. Hardware.
ii. Software.
iii. Procedure.
iv. Data.
v. Users.
3.6. What are grid cells ?

Ans. These are single elements, usually square, within a continuous
geographic variable. Grid cells may be used to represent terrain
slopes, soil types, land cover, etc.
3.7. Classify models in GIS.

Ans. Basically two types of models are :
i. Vector model.
ii. Raster model.
3.8. Enumerate the five basic spatial entities.

Ans. Following are the basic spatial entities :
i. Point.
ii. Line and string.
iii. Areal.
iv. Pixels.
v. Grid cells.
3.9. What are the hardware components of a GIS ?

Ans. Following are the hardware components of a GIS :
i. CPU : Central processing unit is linked to disk drive, which provides
space for storing data and programs.
ii. Digitizer : It is a device used to convert data from maps and
documents into digital form (Raster to vector).
iii. Plotter : Plotter is used to present the result of the data processing
on a paper.
iv. Tape Drive : It is used to store data or programs on magnetic tape
for communicating with other system.
v. VDU : (Visual Display Unit) It is used to control the computer and
the other peripherals. It is otherwise known as terminal or
workstation.
3.10. What are the different uses of GIS ?

Ans. The area of GIS applications are unlimited as it can be used for
management and planning that may be required in any field, e.g.,
urban planning, forestry, environmental management, flood
control, natural disaster management, etc.
3.11. How GIS helps in analyzing the earthquakes ?

Ans. For analyzing the earthquake, several readings are taken for that
particular site, and also calculate the rock defo rmation
characteristics of the site.
3.12. What are maps ?

Ans. A map is a set of points, lines and areas that are defined by their
spatial location with respect to a co-ordinate system and by their
non spatial attributes. A map legend links the non-spatial
attributes to spatial attributes.
3.13. What is a projection ?

Ans.
i. A projection is a method by which the curved surface of the Earth
is represented on a flat surface and it involved the use of
mathematical locations on the plane.
ii. When the curved surface of the Earth is shown on a flat sheet,
some distortion is inevitable.
iii. The distortion is least when the map only shows small areas and
maximum when the map shows entire surface of the Earth.
3.14. What are the broad classifications of projections ?

Ans. Following are the classification of projections :
i. Equal Area Projections : They preserve the area of the features
by assigning them an area on the map which is proportional to
their area on the earth.
ii. Conformal Projections : They preserve the shapes of small
features and show directions (bearings) covertly.
iii. Equidistant Projections : They preserve the distances of places
from one or two points.
3.15. What are the projections, which find their importance in

India ?
Ans. The following projections are of importance for mapping in India :
i. Polyconic projections.
ii. Lambert conformal conic projection.
iii. Transverse mercaptor projection.
iv. Universal transverse mercaptor projection.
v. Cassini projection.

4 Vector Data Model

(2 Marks Questions)
4.1. Define the vector data model.

Ans. The vector model is close to the traditional mapping approach
where the objects are represented as points, lines, or areas.
4.2. What do you understand by spatial data model ?

Ans. It is a geographical representation of Earth features inter-
connected by a co-ordinate system. Spatial data available on maps,
photographs is not in digital form, is spatially located in digital
format while integrating it in a GIS.
4.3. Describe the advantages of vector data.

Ans. Following are the advantages of vector data :
i. A point data can be positioned accurately.
ii. A line data can be represented in exact and fine detail.
iii. Vector data provides exact fine boundaries of aerial patterns e.g.,
land cover, etc.
4.4. Write the disadvantages of vector data.

Ans. Following are the disadvantages of vector data :
i. Vector formats prove costlier because of higher data encoding
cost.
ii. Programs for data manipulation are more complex.
iii. Superimposing / overlaying different layers of data may be difficult.
4.5. Discuss the geospatial analysis.

Ans. Geospatial analysis is the gathering, display, and manipulation of
imagery, GPS, satellite photography and historical data, described
explicitly in terms of geographic coordinates or implicitly, in terms
of street address, postal code, or forest stand identifier as they are
applied to geographic models.
4.6. What is data acquisition ?

Ans. Data acquisition is collecting spatial data from available resources
e.g., maps, photographic images and converting it into digital form.
Data which is already in digital form can be recorded directly.
4.7. What is buffering ?

Ans. Buffering is the creation of polygons that surround other points,
lines or polygons. Buffers may be created either to exclude a
certain amount of area around a point, line or polygon or to include
only the buffer area in a study.
4.8. What is reclassification ?

Ans. Reclassification is an important variation of the query idea in GIS
and is used in place of a query in raster GIS. In raster GIS, the
method of reclassification can be used in place of query to obtain
information under search from a GIS database.
4.9. Differentiate GIS from an information system (IS) and CAD

software ?
Ans.
S. No. GIS IS and CAD software
1. GIS has the capabilities IS and CAD software do not have the
of analysis of spatial data. capabilities of handling spatial data.
2. Co mple x analysis o f It is not possible to use spatial data
multiple spatial data and therefore obviously complex analysis
non-spatial data in an involving spatial and non spatial data
integrated manner is together is not possible.
possible.
3. GIS may be raster based CAD software is compatible only with
vector based or recently vector data structure. In an IS or CAD
the advanced hybrid GIS software raster data structures can
is also available. not be used.
4.10. Describe attribute data.

Ans. Attribute data is data that have a quality characteristic (or attribute)
that meets or does not meet product specification. These
characteristics can be categorized and counted.
Examples of attribute data include sorting and counting the number
of blemishes in a particular product (defects), and the number of
non-conforming pieces (defectives).

5 Raster Data Model

(2 Marks Questions)
5.1. Define the raster data structure.

Ans. Raster data structure, also called cellular data structure depicts the
real world by pixels or grid cells.
5.2. How can you classify raster data ?

Ans. In the raster data structure, everything is represented by grid cells,
a point is represented by a single cell, a line by a string of cells and
an area by a group of cells.
5.3. Discuss the advantages of raster format.

Ans. Following are the advantages of raster format :
i. Raster formats do not prove to be so costly.
ii. Programs for data manipulation are simple.
iii. Ideally suitable for a variety of spatial analysis functions.
5.4. Explain the disadvantages of raster format.

Ans. Following are the disadvantages of raster format :
i. It cannot represent formats accurately as in case of vector data.
ii. A raster data base requires more storage space.
iii. Line data can be represented as zig-zag line, etc.
5.5. Distinguish between spatial and non-spatial data ?

Ans.
Spatial Data Non-spatial Data
Data that define a location. Data that relate to a specific, precisely

These are in the form of graphic defined location. The data are often
primitives that are usually either statistical but may be text, images or
points, lines, polygons or pixels. multi-media. These are linked in the
GIS to spatial data that define the
location.
5.6. What are the data input devices used in a GIS ?

Ans. The important data input devices in a GIS are :

i. Digitizer : Conversion of raster to vector.
ii. Scanner : To convert data on paper to raster/digital data.
iii. Keyboard : Entry of attribute data.
iv. Disk Drive : To take data from another system into a GIS.
5.7. What are the data output devices used in GIS ?

Ans. The important data output devices used in a GIS are :
i Plotter : Used to plot the graphical information after analysis on
a paper.
ii. Printer : Used to print the information after analysis on a paper.
iii. VDU (Visual Display Unit) : Used to display the results after
analysis.
iv. Tape Drive : Used to store the results after analysis and take it to
other systems.
5.8. What are the different input methods into a GIS ?

Ans. Following are the different input methods into a GIS :
i. Keyboard entry.
ii. Manual digitizing.
iii. Scanning and automatic digitizing.


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GIS and Advance Remote Sensing

QUANTUM PAGE PVT. LTD.

PUBLISHED BY : Apram Singh

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Information contained in this work is derived from sources

GIS and Advance Remote Sensing (CE : Sem-5)

Price: Rs. 55/- only

Printed Version : e-Book.

UNIT-2 : REMOTE SENSING (2–1 H to 2–23 H)

UNIT-3 : GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) (3–1 H to 3–28 H)

UNIT-4 : VECTOR DATA MODEL (4–1 H to 4–19 H)

UNIT-5 : RASTER DATA MODEL (5–1 H to 5–18 H)

SHORT QUESTIONS (SQ–1 H to SQ–15 H)

After completion of the course student will be able to:

Part-2 : Geometry of Vertical and ....................... 1–6H to 1–11H

Part-3 : Height Measurement based ................. 1–11H to 1–14H

Part-4 : Fundamental of Stereoscopy, ............. 1–15H to 1–21H

Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions

Que 1.2. Explain the principle of photogrammetric survey.

5. It is unsuitable for dense forest and flat-sands due to the difficulty of

Que 1.3. Mention the different type of aerial photographs and

Fig. 1.3.1. Vertical photograph.

ii. Tilted Photograph : When the optical axis of the camera is

Fig. 1.3.2. Tilted photograph.

iii. Oblique Photograph : It is the photograph taken when the optical

Camera axis Vertical Camera axis

Ground surface Ground surface

Que 1.4. What is aerial photogrammetry ? Write advantages

Que 1.5. What do you unders tand by the term ‘Aerial

Que 1.6. Differentiate between ‘Aerial photography’ and ‘Aerial

S. No. Aerial Photography Aerial Photogrammetry

Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions

Que 1.7. Define various basic terms associated with aerial

ii. When this perpendicular is extended downwards, the point of intersection

–Y Flying height (H)

11. Isocentre (i) :

Que 1.8. How will you determine the scale of an aerial

Que 1.9. Discuss the method of determination of ground

Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions

Que 1.10. Explain relief displacement on a vertical photograph.

4. From similar triangles a1 pO and A1P1O, we get

Fig. 1.10.1. Topographic relief displacement.

Que 1.12. The distance from the principal point to an image on a

Given : Elevation of the object, h1 = 250 m

1. Scale of photograph is given by,

Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions

1. Lens 2. Mirror 3. Zoom 4. Scanning mirror 5. Stereoscopic

Que 1.14. Write a short note on fiducial points.

Fig 1.14.1. Illustration of the location of the fiducial marks and

Que 1.15. Describe the construction and working of a parallax

2. Parallax is the displacement in the image of an object caused by a

3. The instrument as shown in Fig. 1.15.1 consists of two plates of

where, bm is the mean principal base.

Fig. 1.15.2. Principle of a parallax bar.

Que 1.16. Derive the parallax equation for determining the

5. From the similar triangles O1oax and O1AoAx, yield

6. Also, from similar triangles O2oax and O2AoAx,

7. From eq. (1.16.2) and (1.16.3), we get