Vector Burn / Rasterization
Assigns each destination cell a value based on the vector geometry intersecting that grid cell.
R(c)=v(feature) if feature covers cell c
Best used when: vector classes/measurements must participate in raster analysis.
Vector to Raster / Rasterize
Convert vector geometry into raster cells using a field value or constant burn value on a defined output grid.
Shared Raster ToolsEnd-User DocumentationTheory + Formula + Parameters1. What This Feature Does
Convert vector geometry into raster cells using a field value or constant burn value on a defined output grid.
Cloud workflow: choose data → configure the scientific method → run → review the resulting layer/report. No programming is required.
2. Recommended Workflow
Choose vector input.
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Choose attribute/constant value to burn.
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Choose output extent/resolution/reference settings.
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Choose all-touched behavior if available.
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Rasterize and verify class/value encoding.
3. Theory, Methods & Equations
4. Input Data
| Input | Type | Requirement | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Input Vector | vector | Required |
5. Parameters Available in the Application
| Parameter | Default | Choices / Range | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optional Numeric Field | — | — | |
| Constant Burn Value | 1 | — | |
| Cell Size (m) | 10 | 0.0001 to — | |
| Background Value | 0 | — | |
| All Touched | Off | — |
6. Output & Interpretation
The result should be interpreted according to the selected method and the physical meaning of the input data. Preserve source units, coordinate reference information, NoData meaning, acquisition date, and preprocessing level when comparing results.
Scientific interpretation: an algorithm can produce a numerically valid result even when the input data are unsuitable. Always check masks, units, sensor characteristics, spatial resolution and reference data.
Important: Resolution controls information loss. A cell is an area sample, so narrow features can disappear at coarse resolutions.
7. Best Practices
- Use analysis-ready inputs and remove invalid/cloud/noise artifacts that are not part of the target phenomenon.
- Choose parameters from the physical scale of the data, not only from visual appearance.
- Keep categorical and continuous rasters conceptually separate when selecting interpolation/resampling methods.
- Compare the result with the source image and independent reference information.
- Document the settings used when results will be compared across dates, sensors or study areas.