What is a shapefile commonly used for in GIS?

A shapefile is a widely used format in GIS specifically designed for storing vector data. It comprises a set of related files that collectively represent geometric shapes, attributes, and other characteristics of spatial features. Vector data includes points, lines, and polygons, which are essential for representing various geographic features such as roads, rivers, and administrative boundaries.

The format is highly versatile and allows users to efficiently store and manage their spatial datasets, making it a fundamental component in GIS workflows. Given that shapefiles are optimized for vector data representation, this answer accurately reflects the primary use of shapefiles in GIS applications.

Other options do not align with the function of shapefiles: raster data, for example, is typically stored in formats like GeoTIFF or JPG. Creating administrative boundaries can involve shapefiles, but the shapefile itself is not exclusively created for that purpose. Generating 3D models of terrain generally requires different types of data and formats, such as Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) or 3D shapefiles, which is beyond the conventional shapefile capabilities. Thus, option B stands out as the most appropriate choice regarding the common uses of shapefiles in GIS.