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Elevation Model

A digital representation of terrain elevations, such as a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), used in surface and hydrological analysis (standard GIS usage).

Elevation Model

What does an Elevation Model represent?

A digital depiction of the Earth's surface elevation data that illustrates the variation in height across a certain geographic area is called an elevation model. By logging the elevation values at particular locations, it records the contour of the terrain and can be utilized to construct a continuous surface.


Landforms like hills, valleys, slopes, and plateaus can be seen and analysed with the use of elevation models. Applications such as environmental studies, infrastructure development, land-use planning, and flood modelling all depend on them. Digital Elevation Models (DEM), Digital Terrain Models (DTM), and Digital Surface Models (DSM) are common elevation model types that each depict distinct features and aspects of the surface.

Related Keywords

A 3D depiction of a terrain's surface made from elevation data is called a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). In order to analyse slopes, drainage patterns, and landscape features, it records the land's height at regular intervals. GIS, environmental studies, urban planning, and hydrological modelling all make extensive use of DEMs.

Information that shows the height of the land surface above a reference point—typically sea level—is referred to as terrain elevation data. In addition to applications like flood modelling, building planning, and landscape visualization, it is utilized in mapping and geographic analysis. LiDAR, GPS surveys, and satellites are some of the sources that provide precise three-dimensional images of the terrain.

Using information from LiDAR, drones, or satellites, 3D elevation mapping creates a three-dimensional representation of the landscape. Planning, building, and environmental analysis can all benefit from its ability to visualize landforms.

A digital depiction of the Earth's surface that displays changes in elevation and topographical features is called a Topographic Elevation Model (TEM). It provides a three-dimensional representation of the terrain by capturing hills, valleys, slopes, and other landforms. To comprehend the features of the landscape and aid in decision-making, TEMs are extensively utilized in mapping, urban planning, environmental studies, and geospatial analysis.

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