Which term describes a view of the world where features have definite locations and boundaries?

The term that accurately describes a view of the world where features possess definite locations and boundaries is the discrete view. This perspective is crucial in GIS as it focuses on distinct, separate entities or features, which can be clearly identified and mapped.

For example, discrete features might include individual buildings, parcels of land, or roads. Each of these features can be defined by specific boundaries and attributes, making them precisely locatable on a map. This contrasts with the continuous view, which represents phenomena that vary smoothly over space, such as temperature or elevation, where there are no distinct boundaries but rather a gradient or field.

Understanding the discrete view is fundamental in GIS because it allows for effective spatial analysis and manipulation of data, which is critical when working with vector data types. This perspective aids in answering questions related to zoning, land use, and resource management, where clear boundaries are necessary for decision-making.