​Which one of the following is an advantage of the vector data model?

Correct option is A

The vector data model is widely used in GIS and represents data in the form of points, lines, and polygons. It is particularly advantageous for representing discrete objects such as cities, rivers, roads, or boundaries.

• Option (a) Efficient for network analysis: This is correct. The vector data model is highly efficient for network analysis, such as routing, transportation modeling, and analyzing connectivity in systems like road networks, utilities, or communication networks. The representation of roads and connections as lines and points allows for easy computation of shortest paths, flow analysis, and other network-related queries.

• Vector Data Model: The vector data model represents geographical features using points, lines, and polygons. These features are defined by their coordinates and connected by edges. It is especially useful for representing discrete data such as cities, roads, and boundaries.

  Advantages of the vector model:

  • Efficient for network analysis: As mentioned, the vector model is well-suited for network analysis because the relationships between elements (e.g., roads, utility networks) can be easily represented and analyzed.

  • Higher precision: Vector data can represent spatial features with greater accuracy compared to the raster model.

  • Compact storage: For certain types of data, the vector format can be more storage-efficient than raster data, which can require large amounts of space for high-resolution grids.

1. Option (b) Complex data structure: This is not an advantage but rather a limitation. The vector model uses a more complex data structure compared to the raster model, requiring more processing power and storage space for certain types of analyses. It can be more difficult to manage and process when dealing with large datasets.

2. Option (c) Difficult overlay operations: This is incorrect. Overlay operations (combining multiple layers of data) are relatively straightforward in the vector data model. Vector layers can be overlaid using operations like intersection, union, and difference, making them versatile for spatial analysis.

3. Option (d) Not compatible with satellite imagery: This is incorrect. Satellite imagery is generally stored in the raster data model, but vector and raster data can be used together in GIS software. The vector model can be compatible with satellite imagery through techniques such as vectorizing raster data or overlaying vector data on top of satellite imagery.