Final answer:
Remote sensing is the use of technologies like satellites and aerial imagery to collect data about Earth's surface, which is vital for understanding landscapes, monitoring environmental changes, and assessing disaster impacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Remote sensing is the use of satellite or aerial-based technologies to collect data about Earth's surface. This process can include capturing images or using other sensing devices to gather information from a distance, which can then be analyzed to understand various aspects of the environment and human activities. It is a critical component in fields such as environmental science, geography, and urban planning.
Through remote sensing, geographers and scientists can identify, understand, or explain a landscape and determine the land use of a place. This technology is particularly useful for monitoring environmental changes, such as deforestation, urban sprawl, and the effects of natural disasters. Remote sensing devices gather data by detecting the energy that is naturally emitted or reflected by objects on Earth's surface, with certain tools like radar being able to penetrate through clouds or vegetation to collect data.
For example, after a tornado in Oklahoma, remote sensing technology such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and satellites can be used to evaluate the extent of destruction. This information is vital for disaster management and recovery efforts, as it helps to quickly assess the damage and plan the necessary response operations.