What does the term 'proximity' refer to in spatial relationships?

The term 'proximity' in spatial relationships specifically refers to how close features are to each other. This concept is fundamental in geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis, as it can influence various aspects such as accessibility, interaction between features, and the impact of spatial distributions.

For instance, in urban planning, understanding proximity can help assess which areas are within walking distance of amenities or services, facilitating better decision-making regarding service locations. Additionally, proximity can inform analyses such as clustering of events or resources, examining relationships between different spatial elements.

This focus on closeness differentiates 'proximity' from concepts that may involve ordering data or defining physical boundaries, which are distinct aspects of spatial analysis and representation.