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Work with z- and m-values

You can edit z- and m-aware layers in ArcGIS Web Editor. Some editing processes create vertices in a feature that require z- and m-values.

The following editing processes create vertices:

In most cases, when you create or edit z- or m-aware features using these tools, a value is automatically applied.

Z-values

Z-values are a third coordinate used to specify the location of a vertex. In a set of x, y, z coordinates, the z coordinate normally indicates elevation or distance above or below ground.

When you create features in a z-aware layer, the z-value is assigned the default value if available, or assigned a value of 0. You can edit the z-value using the editing constraints when you create a feature.

Note:

Z-values are not currently considered when snapping features.

When you edit features in a z-aware layer, the z-value is assigned as follows:

  1. The z-value is interpolated using the z-value for other vertices if possible.
  2. The default z-value is assigned if available.
  3. The z-value is set to 0.

M-values

M-values are a measure attached to a vertex. Common uses of m-values include distance along a line feature, speed limit, or start and end vertices on a route.

When you create features in an m-aware dataset, the m-value is assigned a value of 0.

When you edit features in an m-aware layer, the m-value is assigned as follows:

  1. The m-value is interpolated using the m-value for other vertices if possible.
  2. The m-value is set to 0.

In this topic
  1. Z-values
  2. M-values