Which geometric shape does a polygon represent in GIS?

In Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a polygon represents a 2-dimensional object. Polygons are defined by a series of connected points (vertices) that form a closed shape, allowing them to enclose an area on a map. This enclosure implies that polygons can depict real-world features that have length and width but no height, such as lakes, parks, and administrative boundaries.

The defining characteristic of polygons as 2-dimensional shapes is that they have both an X (horizontal) and Y (vertical) coordinate system, which distinguishes them from other geometric shapes in GIS. Unlike 1-dimensional objects, which only have length (like a line), or 0-dimensional objects, which consist of a single point with no area, polygons encompass a defined surface area. Additionally, while multi-dimensional shapes may include complex models that represent three-dimensional objects, polygons in standard GIS practices are classified strictly as 2-dimensional. Thus, the option indicating that a polygon is a 2-dimensional object is correct.