In GIS, what is a spatial entity modeled as?

In Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a spatial entity is modeled as a point, line, or area because these geometric primitives represent the fundamental building blocks of spatial data. Points are used to represent specific locations in space, such as landmarks or geographic features, while lines represent linear features like roads, rivers, or paths. Areas, also referred to as polygons, are used to define two-dimensional spaces that can include things like land parcels, lakes, and political boundaries.

This model allows for the efficient representation and analysis of real-world phenomena in a spatial context, enabling tasks like mapping, spatial analysis, and geographic modeling. By using points, lines, and areas, GIS can easily manage and manipulate various forms of spatial information, making this choice the most accurate representation of how spatial entities are conceptualized in the field.