What is a .KML file?
A .KML file, which stands for Keyhole Markup Language File, is used to store geographic data including maps, locations, and 3D models. This type of file is written in an XML format specifically designed for geographic information systems (GIS). It can include various types of data such as placemarks (which mark specific locations), lines (which can represent routes or boundaries), polygons (used for larger areas like parks or city boundaries), and images. Additionally, KML files allow for the inclusion of different camera angles, overlay textures, and HTML content like links and font styles to enhance the presentation and interactivity of the geographic data.
KML files are particularly useful for labeling and identifying locations on a map, and they can be opened and edited with several programs. The most well-known program for handling KML files is Google Earth Pro, which allows users to view and create detailed geographic layouts. Other programs that can open KML files include Merkaartor, Blender (with a Google Earth Importer plug-in), Blue Marble Geographics Global Mapper, and ESRI ArcGIS for Desktop. These tools offer various functionalities from basic viewing to complex 3D modeling and GIS analysis.
For web-based applications, Google Earth and Google Maps can also read KML files directly, making it easy to share and view geographic data online. Mobile apps like Geo Measure Area Calculator+ and BMAC Infotech KML Viewer and Converter on iOS and Android platforms respectively, allow users to interact with KML files on their mobile devices.
Creating a KML file can be done directly within Google Earth or Google Earth Pro. In Google Earth, you can start a new project and choose to create a KML file. In Google Earth Pro, you can save your current place or project as a KML file through the 'Save Place As...' option in the File menu. For those who prefer working directly with code, KML files can also be manually created or edited in a text editor since they are plain text files. This flexibility allows users to copy and paste geographic features directly from Google Earth into a text file and save it with a .kml extension.
Additionally, KML files can be compressed into .KMZ files, which are essentially zipped versions of KML files. This is useful for reducing the file size, making it easier to share large geographic datasets.
In summary, KML files are a versatile and widely supported format for storing and sharing geographic data, compatible with a range of desktop
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