Answers:
Q1: B10
Q2: In comparing images 1, 3, 5 and 7, it appears to me that the images become clearer.
Q3: Red, Green and Blue are the bands.
Q4: 3-2-1 Composite looks much more natural. It has Earthy tones and a more realistic feel.
Q5: The various bands in the chart are explaining certain characteristics on the maps. For example, blue is water, green is vegetation and infrared bands tell us something specific depending on what wavelength they are at.
Q6: When we compare and contrast the natural, false and pseudo color images, we can see different things reflected in each map. From the natural map, we get an idea of what that landscape looks like in real time. With the false map, we can see shapes and texture differently. With the pseudo color map, it is easy for us to pick out detail such as vegetation and buildings.
Q7: With the Natural map we are able to see what the area is really like, we can clearly see snow on Mt. Charleston (to the West) and water to the East.
When observing the False color map, we are allowed to see different soil types, more city definition and we can notice the topography in a different way.
When we use the Pseudo map, the changes in elevation stand out more to me, vegetation is more apparent and roads/streets are somewhat easier to identify.
Q8: The pseudo map represents vegetation more clearly. It shows in a more definite color the minimal vegetation.
Q9: The False color map represents the urban areas more clearly. With its' bold colors we can see city boundaries easier. The way the urban area contrasts with the coloring of the undeveloped land is more obvious.
REFLECTION:
For this assignment, I carefully looked at and urban area (Las Vegas, Nevada) with a scientific perspective. I attempted to analyze this particular area and examine the urban development, topography and vegetation.
To obtain this information, I used mapping in ArcGIS. I downloaded satellite imagery to the ArcGIS system. Within ArcGIS, I was able to examine this specific area clearly and with various options. The data used for this assignment was definitely appropriate. It was detailed, informative and accurate.
Through making different map layers, I was able to analyze the data presented in each layer a bit differently. I was able to view urban sprawl, topography, vegetation and what areas could be further developed.
I am sharing my analysis of this assignment within my eportfolio. Mapping is a great way to learn about the earth in a detailed and scientific manner. The mapping techniques I learned in this assignment can be applied to other areas of my life. Using this ArcGIS mapping system could facilitate me as I plan my next backpacking trip, where to relocate when switching cities/residences, what to expect as far as vegetation during different times of the year and so forth. In a more professional sense, this mapping can be used within many different scopes. It can be useful to any professional in earth science, government resources and those focusing on agriculture.
I'm glad I did this assignment. It shed some light on how mapping works and the numerous options available within mapping systems. Downloading the maps and viewing them was also an enlightening reminder of the importance of making sure data collection and storage of these images is accurate. It is essential to know where we have been to know where we are going. In other words, we need to see the progression of urban sprawl and the changing topography of the land to ensure we are making wise choices for our planet in the future.
