What is spatial resolution in the context of remote sensing?

In the context of remote sensing, spatial resolution refers to the size of the smallest object that can be detected by a sensor. High spatial resolution indicates that the sensor can distinguish smaller objects and features in the captured imagery, leading to more detailed representations of the area being examined. For example, if a satellite sensor has a spatial resolution of one meter, it can differentiate between two objects that are at least one meter apart. This characteristic is crucial for applications such as environmental monitoring, urban planning, and land use mapping, where understanding fine details can significantly impact decision-making.

Other options do not accurately define spatial resolution: the depth of penetration in the soil pertains to different remote sensing techniques; frequency of data collection relates to temporal resolution rather than spatial; and while image clarity is important, it is more associated with overall image quality rather than the capability to detect small objects based on spatial resolution.