NCERT Class 12 Geography Practical Work in Geography Part II: Chapter 4 — 46 46 46 46
This chapter introduces Spatial Information Technology and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for Class 12 Geography students. It explains how computers enhance data processing and mapping, leading to the concept of Spatial Information Systems. The text defines spatial information as features distributed over a geographically definable space with measurable dimensions. Spatial Information Technology involves using technological inputs for collecting, storing, retrieving, displaying, manipulating, managing, and analyzing spatial information, integrating Remote Sensing, GPS, GIS, Digital Cartography, and DBMS. GIS is defined as a system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analyzing, and displaying spatially referenced data to the Earth, forming a decision support system. The chapter distinguishes between spatial and non-spatial data, highlighting their importance in geographical analysis and decision-making within the CBSE curriculum.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | Geography |
| Book | Practical Work in Geography Part II |
| Chapter | Chapter 4 — 46 46 46 46 |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 479 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of spatial information and its technological applications.
- Define Spatial Information Technology and its components.
- Explain the principles and functions of Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
- Differentiate between spatial and non-spatial data.
- Recognize the role of GIS in decision support systems.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Spatial | Relating to features and phenomena distributed over a geographically definable space. |
| Database Management System (DBMS) | Principles and methods of data processing using computer hardware and software. |
| Computer Assisted Cartography | Principles and methods of mapping using computer hardware and software. |
| Spatial Information Technology | Use of technological inputs for collecting, storing, retrieving, displaying, manipulating, managing, and analyzing spatial information. |
| Geographical Information System (GIS) | A system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analyzing, and displaying spatially referenced data to the Earth. |
| Remote Sensing | Technology for acquiring information about an object or phenomenon without making physical contact. |
| GPS (Global Positioning System) | A satellite-based navigation system used to determine the user's exact location. |
| Digital Cartography | The science and practice of making maps using digital technologies. |
| Spatial Data | Data characterized by positional, linear, and areal forms of appearance, having a definite location. |
| Non-spatial Data | Attribute data that does not have a specific geographic location. |
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Practice questions
- What does the term 'spatial' refer to? Answer: The term 'spatial' refers to features and phenomena distributed over a geographically definable space, having physically measurable dimensions.
- List the components that form Spatial Information Technology. Answer: Spatial Information Technology is an amalgamation of Remote Sensing, GPS, GIS, Digital Cartography, and Database Management Systems.
- Define Geographical Information System (GIS). Answer: GIS is a system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analyzing, and displaying data which are spatially referenced to the Earth.
- What is the main difference between spatial and non-spatial data? Answer: Spatial data has a definite geographic location, while non-spatial data consists of attributes that can be located anywhere and do not inherently possess a geographic position.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Which technology deals with the principles and methods of data processing using computer hardware and software?
Explanation: Database Management System (DBMS) specifically deals with the principles and methods of data processing using computer hardware and application software.
Q2. The word 'spatial' is derived from which word?
Explanation: The text explicitly states that the word 'spatial' is derived from 'space'.
Q3. Which of the following is NOT a component of Spatial Information Technology?
Explanation: Artificial Intelligence is not listed as a direct component of Spatial Information Technology in the provided text; the components are Remote Sensing, GPS, GIS, Digital Cartography, and DBMS.
Q4. GIS is primarily used to evolve a:
Explanation: The text mentions that GIS enables the processing of georeferenced information for the purpose of evolving a decision support system.
Q5. Which type of data is characterized by positional, linear, and areal forms of appearances?
Explanation: Spatial data is described as being characterized by its positional, linear, and areal forms of appearances.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary role of computers in data processing and mapping as mentioned in the chapter?
Computers enhance capabilities in data processing and in drawing graphs, diagrams, and maps, forming the basis for technologies like DBMS and Computer Assisted Cartography.
What is the core concept introduced to address questions like 'What is where?' and 'Why is it there?'?
The concept of a Spatial Information System, which integrates data using a computer supported by geo-processing tools, is introduced to address such questions.
How is 'spatial' defined in the context of geography?
'Spatial' refers to features and phenomena distributed over a geographically definable space, possessing physically measurable dimensions.
What are the key technological inputs involved in Spatial Information Technology?
Spatial Information Technology involves technological inputs in collecting, storing, retrieving, displaying, manipulating, managing, and analyzing spatial information.
What does GIS stand for and what is its main purpose?
GIS stands for Geographical Information System. Its main purpose is to capture, store, integrate, manipulate, analyze, and display spatially referenced data to the Earth, forming a decision support system.
Can you give an example of spatial and non-spatial data from the chapter?
The chapter provides an example where the name of different states (like Kerala, Maharashtra) is spatial data because they have definite locations on a map, while a stock register of cycle parts is non-spatial data.
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NCERT Class 12 Geography — Practical Work in Geography Part II — Chapter 4 — 46 46 46 46. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.