What is the result of performing a Union of Inputs operation?

Performing a Union of Inputs operation in GIS involves combining multiple input features into a single output feature. Specifically, this operation overlays the input datasets and creates a new dataset that incorporates the combined extents of the input features, preserving both their geometries and attributes.

The result is a comprehensive layer that represents all the unique geometries from the input datasets. This includes areas where the input features overlap, as well as the areas that are exclusive to each input. Each unique area in the resulting dataset corresponds to a distinct combination of the input datasets' attributes, enabling users to analyze and work with them collectively.

In this context, the idea of combined extents is critical because it emphasizes how the Union operation not only merges the data but also considers the spatial relationships and coverage of the inputs, providing a richer dataset for analysis. Thus, the answer focuses on the significant aspect of how the Union operation fundamentally works in creating a holistic representation of all input features.