spatial reference

A spatial reference is a set of parameters, typically defined by a WKID, that define the coordinate system and spatial properties for geographic data. Applications use a spatial reference to correctly display geographic data in a map or scene. Spatial references ensure that geographic data from different sources can be used together for accurate viewing or analysis. Each spatial reference is defined either by a well-known ID (WKID), also called a spatial reference ID (SRID), or by a well-known text (WKT). Common spatial references include WGS 84 (WKID: 4326), used by GPS systems, and Web Mercator (WKID: 102100), used in most online maps.

Also known as

  • Projected Coordinate System
  • Geographic Coordinate System

Related terms

  • point
  • polyline
  • polygon

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