Final answer:
GIS enables users to answer the geographic question 'why there?' by analyzing spatial patterns and distributions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are powerful tools used to combine maps and data to answer various geographic questions. Specifically, GIS enables users to answer "why there?" which refers to the spatial patterns and distributions of phenomena.
By integrating different data layers, GIS can address questions of spatial relationships and explain why certain patterns appear where they do. For instance, in the field of business, GIS can help determine the best location for a new retail store by analyzing the spatial distribution of potential customers, existing competitors, and infrastructure. Such spatial analysis is also essential in urban planning, environmental management, and many other fields where understanding the 'why' of location is crucial.