Question

Which type of LiDAR is used to create high-resolution digital elevation models ?

• A. DIAL
• B. Doppler
• C. Range Finders
• D. Differential

Hint:

"Elevation" implies measuring distance to the ground. A "Range Finder" is a tool explicitly designed to find that exact distance!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Concept
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) uses laser pulses to measure distances. Different types of LiDAR serve entirely different atmospheric or geographic mapping purposes.

Step 2: Meaning
A Digital Elevation Model (DEM) requires precise measurement of the distance between an airborne sensor and the ground topography.

Step 3: Analysis

• DIAL (Differential Absorption LiDAR) is used to measure chemical concentrations (like ozone) in the atmosphere.
• Doppler LiDAR is used to measure velocity, specifically atmospheric wind speeds.
• Range Finder LiDAR (often known as Topographic LiDAR) specifically measures the exact distance (range) to a solid target, allowing the creation of highly detailed 3D elevation maps.

Step 4: Conclusion
Range finder LiDAR systems calculate exact ground distances, making them the standard tool for generating DEMs. Final Answer: (C)