In GIS, what does the term "local/arithmetic" refer to?

The term "local/arithmetic" in GIS specifically pertains to a category of map algebra operators. These operators are used in raster data analysis to perform calculations based on the values of individual raster cells. In this context, "local" refers to the fact that the operation is applied independently to each cell in the raster dataset, meaning that the results at one location only depend on the value of that cell itself and potentially other cells in the same layer, depending on the operation performed.

For example, if a raster layer represents elevation values, using a local arithmetic operator can allow you to create a new raster layer that shows the increase or decrease in elevation by adding a specific value to each cell or by applying mathematical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division across a raster dataset. This capability is essential for various analyses in GIS, including combining different thematic layers, performing environmental modeling, and applying standardized formulas.

In contrast, other options like data storage and query types do not relate directly to how operations manipulate spatial data through arithmetic, making them less relevant in the context of the defined term.