American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What kind of information does LIDAR primarily provide for planners?

1. Sociocultural data

2. Topographic information

3. Historical preservation data

4. Market trends

The correct answer is: Topographic information

LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is primarily used to gather highly detailed and accurate topographic information. By sending out laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for them to return, LIDAR can generate precise three-dimensional representations of the Earth's surface, including elevation changes, vegetation, and other physical features. This capability is invaluable for planners who need to understand landforms, flood risk areas, slope stability, and potential locations for development or conservation. In planning contexts, topographic data provided by LIDAR can inform decisions about infrastructure placement, environmental assessments, and land use planning. While the other options may pertain to various fields and aspects of planning, they do not directly relate to the specific capabilities of LIDAR technology. The focus on topographic information distinguishes LIDAR from other data gathering methods that might involve socioeconomic or market analysis.