Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

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What is the primary purpose of a Geographic Information System (GIS)?

To create artistic maps
To overlay various data layers on a basic locational map grid
To record historical data of a region
To solely analyze population density

The correct answer is: To overlay various data layers on a basic locational map grid

The primary purpose of a Geographic Information System (GIS) is to overlay various data layers on a basic locational map grid. This capability allows users to visualize, analyze, and interpret spatial data in relation to specific geographic locations. By layering different types of information—such as demographic data, environmental data, and infrastructure data—GIS provides a powerful tool for understanding complex relationships and patterns in a spatial context. Through this process, users can identify trends, make decisions based on geographic information, and solve problems that involve spatial relationships. For instance, planners might use GIS to assess land use changes, emergency responders might analyze risk areas for natural disasters, and researchers can visualize data on health outcomes in relation to environmental factors. While artistic maps, historical data recording, and population density analysis can all be aspects or applications of GIS, they do not encapsulate its primary purpose, which lies in the integration and visualization of multiple data sets to inform analysis and support decision-making.