What are the two primary types of spatial data in GIS?

The two primary types of spatial data in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are vector and raster data.

Vector data represents geographic features through points, lines, and polygons, allowing for a precise depiction of discrete objects such as buildings, roads, and boundaries. Each vector feature is associated with attribute data that provides additional information about that feature, facilitating detailed analyses.

Raster data, on the other hand, is composed of a grid of cells or pixels, each with a specific value that represents information, such as temperature or elevation. This type of data is particularly effective for representing continuous phenomena, like satellite images or digital elevation models. Raster data is often utilized for analyses that involve surface modeling or time-series data.

Together, vector and raster data form the foundation for spatial analysis in GIS, allowing users to visualize, analyze, and interpret geographical information for various applications.