What type of metadata is specifically applicable to geographic data and information?

The correct choice is geospatial metadata, as it directly pertains to geographic data and information. Geospatial metadata provides essential context about spatial datasets, including their source, accuracy, resolution, and coordinate reference systems. This type of metadata is crucial for users to understand how to appropriately use the geographic data, assess its reliability, and effectively integrate it into other datasets or geographic information systems (GIS).

Geospatial metadata often follows specific standards, such as the ISO 19115 standard, which facilitates better sharing and interoperability among different geographic information systems. By offering detailed information about the geographic datasets, it enhances data discovery and usability, allowing for more informed decision-making in various applications, like environmental management, urban planning, and transportation.

The other types of metadata, while valuable for their respective purposes, do not specifically address the unique aspects of geographic data. Statistical metadata is focused on the methods and processes used for statistical analysis, administrative metadata pertains to the management and governance of data, and descriptive metadata involves the attributes and characteristics of the data but lacks the spatial context that is vital in geospatial applications. Thus, geospatial metadata stands out as the essential type applicable to geographic data and information.