ABSTRACT
Spatial analysis involves using various tools and databases in order to characterize spatially distributed variables as well as the relationship among these variables. Spatial analysis uses information on spatial variation to allow us to characterize the spatial extent of environmental problems and the spatial relationship among variables. The fact that so many environmental issues have a spatial dimension provides an opportunity for researchers to study environmental problems by analyzing spatial patterns. The term geographic information science refers to the systematic study of information contained in geographic databases. These databases are contained within computer-based systems that capture and store geographic information and then provide tools to manipulate, analyze, and display the information visually. Vector data consist of individual points on a grid, which may be connected using straight lines, or vectors. Spatial analysis is a booming field in environmental studies, thanks to tremendous recent advances in the technologies of remote sensing, mapping, and computer-based tools for spatial analysis.
