Esri ArcGIS Pro Foundation Certification Practice Test

Which format is appropriate for recording a geographic location?

1. Broadway and Lexington

2. 42.944, -122.172

3. 380 New York Street

4. 42 Degrees, 16 Minutes, 23 Seconds

The correct answer is: 42.944, -122.172

The correct choice for recording a geographic location is represented by the numeric coordinates 42.944, -122.172. This format uses decimal degrees, a commonly accepted method for expressing the precise locations on the Earth's surface. It is beneficial for geographic information systems (GIS) applications, including ArcGIS Pro, as it allows for easy input and computation within spatial analysis frameworks. The use of decimal degrees is favored because it provides a clear and precise means to convey geographic coordinates, making it easy to work with in mapping software. This format also simplifies calculations and can easily be converted to other formats if necessary. In contrast, the other options represent locations but in different formats which are not as universally applicable for GIS purposes. Broadway and Lexington is a street intersection description and may lack the specific precision needed for certain analytical tasks. The address "380 New York Street" specifies a location but does not provide coordinates, making it less practical for geographic mapping. Lastly, the degree, minute, and second format (42 Degrees, 16 Minutes, 23 Seconds) is another way to express geographic coordinates but is considered less practical in contemporary GIS applications due to its complexity and the potential for conversion errors when used in digital systems.