Which data model is typically more appropriate for terrain modeling, vector or raster, and why?

The correct answer is that raster is typically more appropriate for terrain modeling because it represents continuous surfaces. Terrain features, such as elevation changes, slope, and aspect, are best captured in a format that can depict gradual transitions across a landscape. Raster data is composed of a grid of cells or pixels, with each cell having a specific value that corresponds to the attribute being measured—such as elevation. This allows for a more natural representation of terrain where variations in topography can be represented smoothly and accurately.

Raster data is particularly useful for analyses that involve the calculation of derivatives, such as slope and flow direction, as operations can be performed across the entire surface in a uniform manner. Additionally, many geospatial analysis tools in GIS software are optimized for raster workflows when dealing with continuous data types.

In contrast, while vector data is excellent for representing discrete features like roads, buildings, and specific points of interest, it does not inherently capture the smoothly varying nature of terrain. Although vector data can be used for terrain modeling via triangulated irregular networks (TINs) or contour lines, it often requires more complex data management and may not effectively represent the continuous nature of elevation changes.

Raster's ability to provide a detailed, cell-based representation of the terrain directly aligns with the