Explain the difference between raster and vector images.

Raster images and vector images are two fundamental types of graphic representations, each serving different purposes based on their characteristics.

Raster images are made up of a grid of individual pixels, where each pixel has its own color value. This means that when you enlarge a raster image, you essentially stretch these pixels, which can lead to a loss of quality and clarity, resulting in a pixelated appearance. This type of image is commonly used for photographs and detailed images where subtle color changes are essential.

On the other hand, vector images are created using mathematical formulas that define shapes, lines, and curves. Because they rely on paths rather than pixels, vector images can be resized to any scale without losing quality. This makes them ideal for logos, illustrations, and graphics that need to be displayed at varying sizes without degradation.

The correct choice highlights this fundamental difference in composition: raster images consist of pixels, while vector images are based on paths. Understanding this distinction is crucial when selecting the appropriate graphics format for a specific application, ensuring that you achieve the desired quality and scalability in your visual communications.