Vector data model

The vector data model is best for modeling discrete objects which have clearly defined boundaries and can be counted

Examples of vector features:

  • Coral reefs :tropical_fish:
  • Point sources of pollution :factory:
  • Individual trees or patches of wetland :evergreen_tree:
  • Animal movement tracks from GPS collars :paw_prints:
  • Areas affected by fire or clear-felling :fire:

Vector data come in three spatial forms: point, line and polygon. Each vector feature can have multiple attributes

Points
One-dimensional feature with a single x and y coordinate (vertex) This example contains 3 points
Lines
Linear two dimensional feature composed of a series of x and y coordinates (vertices)

This example contains a single line made from 4 vertices

Polygons
Two dimensional feature composed of sequence of x and y coordinates (vertices) where the first and last vertex are identical, creating a closed area

This example contains a single polygon made from 9 vertices

Polygon

Vector attributes
Information about a feature or record, stored in columns in the attributes table

If you’ve followed the instructions to import your own dataset from a text file, you’ve created vector data - points, which can be connected into lines and or polygons. You can also add other field observations as attribute information

Quiz: Vector data model

Test your new knowledge with our mini quiz! :heavy_check_mark:


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