In GIS, what does buffering refer to?

Buffering in GIS specifically refers to the creation of a zone around a geographic feature. This technique is crucial for spatial analysis as it allows users to determine the area surrounding a selected feature—such as a point, line, or polygon—within a specified distance. For example, if a user buffers a river, they can create a zone that includes everything within a certain distance from the riverbank.

This approach has practical applications across various fields. In environmental studies, for example, buffering can help identify areas that might be affected by pollution from a water source. In urban planning, it helps assess the impact of new developments relative to existing infrastructure or natural features. By establishing these zones, GIS professionals can perform further analysis, such as calculating the number of homes within a certain distance from schools or parks, thereby enabling informed decision-making.

Understanding buffering is essential for effective GIS practices, as it not only aids in visualization but also facilitates complex spatial analyses that are integral to geographic studies.