Open map List

Binary Map

A binary map is a type of thematic map that represents geographic data using only two distinct values, typically 1 and 0, or "presence and absence" of a feature. It is commonly used in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing for classification and analysis.

Basic

Introduction

Key Characteristics of a Binary Map:

  • Two Categories Only: Features are classified into one of two possible states (e.g., "Yes/No", "Forest/Non-Forest", "Urban/Non-Urban").
  • Simplified Representation: Eliminates unnecessary details to highlight specific features.
  • Used for Boolean Analysis: Helps in spatial queries and decision-making.

Explanation

Common Applications of Binary Maps:

  1. Land Cover Classification: Identifying areas covered by a certain type of vegetation (e.g., forest vs. non-forest).
  2. Flood Risk Mapping: Showing areas that are flood-prone (1 = flood zone, 0 = non-flood zone).
  3. Urban Expansion Analysis: Mapping developed vs. undeveloped land.
  4. Habitat Suitability Modeling: Highlighting areas suitable for a particular species.
  5. Remote Sensing & Image Processing: Converting satellite images into binary masks (e.g., water vs. land detection).

Examples

Example of a Binary Map Representation:

Pixel/Cell Value Meaning
1 Feature Present (e.g., Forested Area)
0 Feature Absent (e.g., Non-Forested Area)

Outgoing relations