APHUG 1.7 2

Ten flashcards review key concepts from the lecture on gravity models, spatial modeling purposes, urban cost-distance relationships, and major geographic technologies such as GIS, GPS, aerial photography, and remote sensing.

What is the primary purpose of a gravity model in spatial analysis?

To estimate interactions such as transportation flows, business influence areas, and migration flows between two locations.

Which mathematical expression represents the classic gravity model?

Location 1 population × Location 2 population (often divided by distance squared or another distance factor).

Why do geographers use models in their research?

Models help visualize geographic patterns that are not readily visible and answer theoretical questions about spatial relationships.

How can the concentric zone model be adapted for urban real-estate analysis?

It can be modified into a graph that shows the cost-to-distance relationship of urban real-estate prices.

When did geographic information systems (GIS) become practical for widespread use?

With the advent of desktop computers in the 1970s.

What is a key capability of GIS software?

Combining multiple spatial data layers to perform analysis and mapping.

What global technology relies on satellites emitting measurable radio signals for positioning?

The Global Positioning System (GPS).

What two remote-observation methods provide much of today’s GIS data?

Aerial photography and satellite-based remote sensing.

How are traditional aerial photographs captured, and what trend is changing this method?

They are taken from aircraft and printed on film; however, digital camera usage is increasingly replacing film.

How do remote-sensing satellites gather information about Earth’s surface?

They use computerized scanners to record data across various spectral bands.