What is a key characteristic of continuous data?

Continuous data is characterized by its ability to vary in value across a geographic area, making it significant for representing phenomena that do not adhere to discrete boundaries. This type of data can take on any value within a given range, which allows it to accurately represent gradients and smooth changes in attributes such as temperature, elevation, or population density.

In contrast, the other characteristics listed do not accurately describe continuous data. For instance, continuous data is not limited to whole numbers; it can include fractions and decimal values, thereby encompassing any value in a range rather than just distinct categories. Similarly, continuous data does not represent distinct categories or groups, which is more characteristic of categorical or nominal data types. Lastly, while continuous data can be applied to various feature types, including polygons and surfaces, it is not exclusive to point features. This versatility underscores the importance of understanding continuous data in various geographic analyses.