Generate band math

Band math creates a derived single-band layer by evaluating a formula against an image layer.

Generate a layer

1. Open the image in a workspace and select Explore.
2. Expand the image source and its Analysis layers subsection.
3. Select Generate analysis layers and then Band math.
4. In Generate Band Math, choose the input layer.
5. Optionally enter a Descriptive name.
6. Choose Build formula or Use library.
7. Review the formula and select Generate. Use Generate more to keep the dialog open for another result.

The result is added as a separate band-math layer in the workspace.

Build formula

Use the formula builder to combine input bands with arithmetic operations. If the layer has center-wavelength metadata, choose bands by wavelength. Otherwise, use zero-based band indices; the first band is index 0.

Check denominators and expected ranges. Division by a value near zero can produce unstable output.

Use library

The library lists formulas whose wavelength variables can be resolved for the selected layer. Select a compatible formula and review the resolved bands before generating it.

Use Manage Custom Indexes to add or edit formulas specific to your account. A custom formula is reusable, but its scientific validity and sensor compatibility still need to be verified for each application.