What is metadata?

• A. Data about data
• B. Data about time
• C. Data about space
• D. Data about coordinates

Answer: (A)

Metadata is data about data. It describes and provides information about a dataset’s content, quality, conditions of collection, and how to use it. In geodesy, metadata might include when measurements were taken, which instrument and antenna were used, the coordinate reference system and units, accuracy, processing steps, and file format. This extra information helps someone understand what the data represent, reuse it correctly, and assess its reliability. While time, space, or coordinates can be part of metadata, metadata as a concept is broader: it is descriptive information about the data itself.