Question

Which of the following is considered as the main disadvantage in the application of remote sensing methods?

• A. It saves time and manpower as larger area can be covered
• B. It provides only a synoptic overview or bird's eye view of a larger area
• C. It cannot provide all the information needed for any scientific study
• D. The collection and interpretation is expensive

Hint:

When evaluating pros and cons, consider the fundamental barriers. For many advanced technologies like remote sensing, the high initial and operational cost is a primary limiting factor that restricts its widespread use.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the primary drawback or disadvantage of using remote sensing technology.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the options:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) It saves time and manpower...: This is a major advantage of remote sensing, not a disadvantage. } \\ \bullet & \text{(B) It provides only a synoptic overview...: Providing a synoptic (large-scale) view is also a key advantage, allowing for the study of large areas at once. } \\ \bullet & \text{(C) It cannot provide all the information...: This is a limitation, as remote sensing data often requires "ground-truthing" (field verification). However, this is true for many scientific methods; they are rarely standalone. } \\ \bullet & \text{(D) The collection and interpretation is expensive: This is a significant and often prohibitive disadvantage. The costs include satellite launches, sophisticated sensors, data acquisition, powerful computers for processing, specialized software, and highly trained personnel for interpretation. This high cost is a primary barrier to its application. } \\ \end{array}\] Comparing the disadvantages, the high cost (D) is the most significant and universal barrier, making it the main disadvantage.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The main disadvantage in the application of remote sensing methods is that the collection and interpretation is expensive.