Spatial coordinates are numerical values used to specify the position of a point in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space within a defined coordinate system [1][2]. In geographic applications, they may represent locations using latitude and longitude, planar coordinates such as easting and northing, or three-dimensional coordinates that include height or elevation [1][3]. The meaning of coordinate values depends on the coordinate system’s axis definitions, order, units, and reference framework [1][2]. For example, latitude and longitude identify a position relative to a geographic reference system, whereas easting and northing express positions in a projected coordinate system using linear units [3][4]. Spatial coordinates support the representation, measurement, comparison, and analysis of geographic features, and coordinate operations can convert or transform coordinate values between reference systems [1][4]. Coordinate values alone are not always sufficient to identify a real-world location unambiguously; the associated coordinate reference system must also be known [1][2].
Geographic Information Systems Studies • Geography, Planning and Development • Social Sciences • Social Sciences