What tool is commonly used for analyzing spatial data in GIS?

The choice of GIS software as the correct answer reflects its specialized capabilities in handling spatial data analysis. GIS software is specifically designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data. This type of software contains a suite of tools that allow users to conduct spatial analysis, create maps, and visualize data in a geographic context.

Unlike spreadsheet software, which is generally used for numerical data and basic calculations, GIS software provides advanced functionalities such as overlay analysis, spatial querying, and geostatistical analysis. It also allows for layering different datasets, which is crucial for understanding complex spatial relationships.

While standard database management systems can handle large quantities of data, they do not possess the specialized functions needed for spatial data manipulation and analysis inherent to GIS software. Moreover, image editing software is primarily designed for manipulating visual imagery rather than for analyzing geographic data.

In summary, GIS software is the appropriate tool for analyzing spatial data due to its dedicated features tailored for geographic information systems, making it the preferred choice among the options provided.