Which of the following best describes raster data?

Raster data is best described as continuous data that is represented in a grid format, where each cell (or pixel) in the grid has a specific value associated with it. This representation is particularly effective for capturing data that varies continuously across a landscape, such as temperature, elevation, or land cover. Each cell in the raster can store numerical values or color information that reflect varying intensities or classes of the phenomenon being measured.

This grid structure allows for efficient storage and processing of large datasets, making it suitable for various applications in GIS, such as analyses involving terrain modeling or environmental monitoring. The continuous nature of raster data means it can represent gradual changes in phenomena rather than distinct categories, providing a comprehensive view of spatial information.

The other options do not adequately capture the essence of raster data. For example, the notion of data represented as points and lines pertains more to vector data, which encapsulates discrete features. Discrete data that does not change implies a static nature that does not align with the continuous variability inherent in raster datasets. Lastly, structured hierarchical relationships pertain more to data types such as geodatabases or metadata, rather than the direct grid format that defines raster data.