GIS and Remote Sensing

Key for Mid – 1 (Syllabus handled by Mrinal Gour, Unit - I)

Q1. List the main coordinate systems used in GIS and define map transformations (2)
A The coordinate systems used in GIS are:
1. Spherical Coordinate System
2. Projected Coordinate Systematic and
3. Grid System
Map transformation is the process of using a set of control points and transformation equations to
register a digitised map or an image to a projected coordinate system.

Q2. Write toolbox based and organizational based definitions of GIS (2)
A Toolbox based definition of GIS:
GIS is a system for capturing, storing, checking, manipulating, analysing and displaying data
which are spatially referenced to the Earth.
Organisation based definition of GIS:
GIS is an automated set of functions that provides professionals with advanced capabilities for
the storage, retrieval, manipulation and display of geographically located data.

Q4a. What is map projection ? Draw the three map projection families along with their salient
features. (4)
A A projection is a method by which the curved surface of the Earth is represented on a flat
surface using mathematical transformations. Distortion is an inevitable consequence. Distortion
may occur for the following properties - shape, distance, areas or directions. All properties
cannot be maintained simultaneously. The three basic projection families used are:
1. Cylindrical projection
-continuous picture of the Earth
-countries near the equator are in true relative positions
-distance increases between countries located towards top and bottom of image
-the view of poles is very distorted
-area (property) is preserved

2. Conic projection
-area (property) is distorted
-distance is highly distorted towards the bottom of the image
-scale (property) is mostly preserved

3. Planar or Azimuthal projection

-only a part of the Earth's surface is visible
-viewable portion of the Earth is half or less
-distortion occurs at all the edges of the plane
-distance (property) is preserved

Q4b. Define scale. Elaborate on the basic entity types used in GIS and explain scale related
generalization (3)
A Scale is defined as the ratio of the distance on the map to the corresponding distance on the
ground. Scale can be expressed as a ratio, verbal scale or graphical scale. Small scale maps = large
distances on the ground and vice-versa. All geographic features in the real world are expressed as three
basic entities in maps or GIS. They are: (I) Point, (II) Line and (III) Polygon (or area). Depending on
the scale, a particular geographic entity can be considered a point, line or a polygon. Eg: On a very
small scale map showing the entire world, the capital of India (Delhi) is seen as a point whereas on a
very large scale map of India, Delhi is seen as a polygon (area) along with the important roads (that are
shown as lines), etc

Q5. Describe in detail the use of GIS in any four areas (7)
A GIS is used in (I) Routing traffic
(II) Town planning
(III) Site reconnaissance during emergencies
(IV) Oil and Gas exploration
(V) Agriculture (soil suitability analysis and pest management)
(VI) Municipal applications