Electromagnetic Spectrum and Atmospheric Windows MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Hyperspectral remote sensing uses many narrow, adjacent bands to capture a nearly continuous signal of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Step-by-step solution

1. Remote sensing is of two main types based on bands: Multispectral and Hyperspectral. 2. Multispectral sensors use a few wide bands that are separated from each other (discontinuous). 3. Hyperspectral sensors use hundreds of very narrow bands (usually 10 to 20 nm wide). 4. Because these narrow bands are placed right next to each other without gaps, they cover the spectrum in a 'continuous' manner. 5. This allows the sensor to create a complete 'spectral signature' for every pixel. Answer: (B) Continuous

Explanation

Hyperspectral sensors collect data in hundreds of very narrow, adjacent spectral bands. This creates a complete and unbroken curve of the reflected energy. Unlike multispectral sensing which has gaps, hyperspectral sensing is considered continuous.

Why the other options are wrong

A: This describes multispectral sensing where bands are separated by gaps. C: Discrete means separate or distinct parts, which describes multispectral data, not the continuous nature of hyperspectral. D: Alternating would mean the spectrum switches back and forth, which is not how sensors collect data.

Shortcut

Remember: 'Multi' = few/gaps (discontinuous), 'Hyper' = many/no gaps (continuous).

Common mistake

Students often confuse multispectral (discrete/discontinuous) with hyperspectral (continuous).