Buffer zones in GIS are primarily created for what purpose?

Buffer zones in GIS are primarily created to analyze proximity to features. This concept involves creating a designated area around a geographic feature (such as a river, road, or point of interest) to assess the influence or impact of that feature on surrounding areas. Buffer zones help identify relationships between geographic elements and can be crucial for various analyses, such as understanding how far pollutants might spread from a factory, determining the potential impact of a construction project on nearby wildlife habitats, or planning for emergency response in the event of a disaster.

The importance of buffer zones lies in their ability to provide a spatial analysis tool that aids in decision-making and planning. By establishing buffer areas, GIS practitioners can better understand spatial dynamics, assess risks, and optimize resource allocation based on proximity to critical features.