In GIS, what does metadata provide?

Metadata plays a crucial role in Geographic Information Systems by providing comprehensive information about other data. It serves as a framework that describes the various aspects of the datasets used in GIS, such as their source, how they were collected, their accuracy, temporal relevance, and any limitations they may have. This information is vital for users to assess the reliability and applicability of data for their specific purposes or analyses.

Understanding the source helps users determine who created the data and under what conditions, which can affect its credibility. Accuracy information allows users to evaluate how precise the data is, which is essential when making decisions based on that data. Furthermore, knowing the temporal context tells users when the information was collected or last updated, which is important for time-sensitive analyses.

In contrast, data related to geographic coordinates, features of a geographic model, or spatial relationships represent distinct concepts that do not encompass the broader context provided by metadata. While those elements are critical in various GIS applications, they do not capture the comprehensive overview that metadata offers regarding the dataset's qualities and usability.