What is the key difference between vector and raster data formats?

The key difference between vector and raster data formats lies in how each represents geographic information. Raster data is characterized by its use of a grid of pixels, where each pixel represents a specific value or color that correlates to a particular attribute of the real-world feature it depicts. This format is commonly utilized for continuous data, such as imagery from satellites or aerial photos, where every pixel contributes to the overall representation of the landscape.

In contrast, vector data represents geographic features using discrete geometric shapes: points, lines, and polygons. Points can signify specific locations, such as cities or landmarks. Lines typically represent linear features like roads or rivers, while polygons depict areal features such as lakes or land parcels. This granularity in representation allows vector data to capture details more precisely, especially when dealing with defined boundaries and spatial relationships.

Understanding the structure of these two data types is crucial for effective spatial analysis and the application of geospatial intelligence, as each format has its advantages and best use cases.