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CONS 127 Midterm University of British
Columbia | Original Study Resource |
Graded A Level
Question 1
What is the definition of remote sensing?
A) Collecting data using contact instruments on the ground
B) Acquiring information about an object without physical contact,
typically using sensors on satellites or aircraft
C) Analyzing data only through visual interpretation
D) Measuring temperature with a thermometer
Answer: B
Rationale: Remote sensing involves detecting and recording
electromagnetic radiation reflected or emitted from objects without
direct contact. It is the foundation of satellite Earth observation.
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Question 2
Which of the following is NOT a component of a remote sensing
system?
A) Energy source (sun or active sensor)
B) Interaction with the target (atmosphere, surface)
C) Recording of energy by a sensor
D) Soil sample collection
Answer: D
Rationale: Soil sample collection is an in-situ measurement, not part
of the remote sensing process. The remote sensing process includes
energy source, transmission, interaction, recording, and analysis.
Question 3
True or False: Passive remote sensing relies on naturally
available energy, such as sunlight.
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Answer: True
Rationale: Passive sensors (e.g., Landsat, MODIS) detect reflected
sunlight or emitted thermal radiation. Active sensors (e.g., radar,
LiDAR) provide their own energy source.
Question 4
The first satellite dedicated to Earth observation (civilian) was:
A) Landsat 1 (ERTS-1)
B) SPOT 1
C) NOAA AVHRR
D) Terra MODIS
Answer: A
Rationale: Landsat 1, launched in 1972, was the first Earth
resources technology satellite, revolutionizing civilian remote
sensing.
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Question 5
What is the primary advantage of satellite-based remote
sensing over aerial photography?
A) Higher spatial resolution
B) Lower cost per unit area and repeatable global coverage
C) No atmospheric interference
D) Ability to see through clouds
Answer: B
Rationale: Satellites provide consistent, repetitive coverage over
large areas. Aerial photography has higher resolution but is more
expensive for regional/global studies.
Question 6
Which of the following is an example of an active remote
sensing system?
CONS 127 Midterm University of British
Columbia | Original Study Resource |
Graded A Level
Question 1
What is the definition of remote sensing?
A) Collecting data using contact instruments on the ground
B) Acquiring information about an object without physical contact,
typically using sensors on satellites or aircraft
C) Analyzing data only through visual interpretation
D) Measuring temperature with a thermometer
Answer: B
Rationale: Remote sensing involves detecting and recording
electromagnetic radiation reflected or emitted from objects without
direct contact. It is the foundation of satellite Earth observation.
,Page 2 of 138
Question 2
Which of the following is NOT a component of a remote sensing
system?
A) Energy source (sun or active sensor)
B) Interaction with the target (atmosphere, surface)
C) Recording of energy by a sensor
D) Soil sample collection
Answer: D
Rationale: Soil sample collection is an in-situ measurement, not part
of the remote sensing process. The remote sensing process includes
energy source, transmission, interaction, recording, and analysis.
Question 3
True or False: Passive remote sensing relies on naturally
available energy, such as sunlight.
,Page 3 of 138
Answer: True
Rationale: Passive sensors (e.g., Landsat, MODIS) detect reflected
sunlight or emitted thermal radiation. Active sensors (e.g., radar,
LiDAR) provide their own energy source.
Question 4
The first satellite dedicated to Earth observation (civilian) was:
A) Landsat 1 (ERTS-1)
B) SPOT 1
C) NOAA AVHRR
D) Terra MODIS
Answer: A
Rationale: Landsat 1, launched in 1972, was the first Earth
resources technology satellite, revolutionizing civilian remote
sensing.
, Page 4 of 138
Question 5
What is the primary advantage of satellite-based remote
sensing over aerial photography?
A) Higher spatial resolution
B) Lower cost per unit area and repeatable global coverage
C) No atmospheric interference
D) Ability to see through clouds
Answer: B
Rationale: Satellites provide consistent, repetitive coverage over
large areas. Aerial photography has higher resolution but is more
expensive for regional/global studies.
Question 6
Which of the following is an example of an active remote
sensing system?
