Which datum is commonly used for GPS maps?

Which datum is commonly used for GPS maps?

• A. WGS-84
• B. NAD27
• C. ETRS89
• D. GDA94

Answer: (A)

A datum sets the reference frame and shape used to define latitude and longitude. For GPS, the coordinates are defined in a global reference frame built on WGS-84, which is why maps derived from GPS data use this same frame. This ensures consistency worldwide, since the GPS satellites and receivers all operate in relation to WGS-84. Local datums like NAD27 (older North American), ETRS89 (Europe), or GDA94 (Australia) exist, but using them with GPS data would require transforming the coordinates to another frame. So for GPS maps, WGS-84 is the standard reference.

A datum sets the reference frame and shape used to define latitude and longitude. For GPS, the coordinates are defined in a global reference frame built on WGS-84, which is why maps derived from GPS data use this same frame. This ensures consistency worldwide, since the GPS satellites and receivers all operate in relation to WGS-84. Local datums like NAD27 (older North American), ETRS89 (Europe), or GDA94 (Australia) exist, but using them with GPS data would require transforming the coordinates to another frame. So for GPS maps, WGS-84 is the standard reference.