Geographical information system (GIS)

Definition

A computer system used to store, display and analyse information linked to geographical locations.

Used by Edexcel and OCR

Specification 1.10, 2.6, 6.2 · Paper 1, Paper 2

A computer-based system for storing, displaying and analysing information linked to geographical locations.
A GIS stores geographical information in layers. Displaying geology over a base map is one example. For a river investigation, dated channel information, habitat surveys and imagery can be compared over the same area.
Revise: Investigating Rivers Using Maps and GIS
Revise: Introduction, Monitoring and Measurement of Tropical Cyclones

1
When comparing maps or GIS layers, check their dates, scales and coverage. Distinguish an observed change from an explanation of its cause.
2
For GIS, describe the spatial pattern before suggesting causes. Tree-cover loss is not necessarily permanent deforestation, and a dominant-driver category may hide interacting causes.
3
Support a description with locations and values from the GIS display, rather than simply saying that there is a pattern.

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A computer system for storing, displaying and analysing information linked to geographical locations.

Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3

A GIS displays geographically located information in layers. For cyclone tracking, useful layers include observed positions and tracks, forecast positions and tracks, and a forecast error cone. Observed positions show where the centre has already been recorded; forecast positions show where it is predicted to move.
Revise: Preparation and response
A computer system used to store, display and analyse geographically located information in layers.
Revise: Risks from Coastal Flooding and Erosion
A computer-based system for storing, displaying and analysing information linked to geographic locations, often using overlapping map layers.
Revise: Sustainable Approaches and Policy Decisions

3 more notes

A computer system used to store, display and analyse information linked to locations.
Revise: Investigating Flood Management Options and Policies
Revise: Threats to rainforests
A computer system for storing, displaying and analysing geographically located information in layers.
Revise: Taiga protection

Specification 9.1 · Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3

A digital system that combines data about locations with information about those places, allowing users to display, compare and analyse it.
A geographical information system (GIS) brings these two kinds of information together: location and descriptive data.
Revise: GIS and Geo-spatial Data