Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
Structure of the topic
1.4
Chapters 2, 3, and 4 introduce a range of key concepts that provide the foundations for
the rest of the topic. Chapter 2 describes data models (ways of representing real-world
objects or features), data management, spatial scale, data collection, data errors, visu-
alization, and querying. Chapter 3 introduces some key statistical concepts and meth-
ods. In Chapter 4, some methods for the analysis of spatial data are outlined. More
specii cally, Chapter 4 deals with measuring distances and areas, moving windows
(a key concept in spatial data analysis, which allows assessment of dif erences between
geographical areas), geographical weights, and a variety of additional core issues in the
handling and analysis of spatial data. Chapter 5 is concerned with overlaps between
features (e.g. do areas with particular characteristics overlap?) while Chapter 6 is con-
cerned with links between component parts of networks (e.g. a road network) to
address questions like what is the shortest path between locations A and B? Chapter 7
introduces some methods for the analysis of point patterns (geographically located
sets of point events such as cases of a disease). Chapter 8 is concerned with the analysis
of spatial patterning in single variables and in relations between multiple variables.
In simple terms, it presents methods for exploring how values vary geographically
and how the relationships between values vary (the example given in Section 8.7 con-
siders the relationship between altitude and snowfall). Chapter 9 outlines some meth-
ods for generating surfaces from point data and for transferring values between
dif erent sets of zones. In Chapter 10, the focus is on the analysis of grids and surfaces
(both literally, as in topography, and in terms of other properties, such as precipita-
tion, that can be treated as surfaces). Finally, Chapter 11 pulls together some key
themes addressed in the topic and suggests some ways forward for those who would
like to know more about the topics addressed in the topic.
Appendices A to F include short outlines of particular topics to support discussion
in the main body of the text and these are referred to where relevant. Appendix G
includes a table that details some common kinds of problems that are ot en encoun-
tered in spatial data analysis. h e relevant sections of the topic that of er solutions to
these problems are detailed. h e table is intended as a means of quickly identifying
sections of the text that are relevant for specii c applications.
All of the substantive chapters include worked examples using either synthetic or
real-world data. In addition, Chapters 5 to 10 include case studies at their conclusions
with the data on which these studies are based being provided on the topic website
along with guidance on how some key methods are implemented in popular GIS
packages. All of the synthetic data are also provided on the topic website. It is hoped
that the text, example applications, and data will, in conjunction, allow readers to
develop a i rm understanding of the key ideas and techniques described in the topic.
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