A pixel, short for “picture element,” is the smallest unit of a digital image or display. Each pixel represents a single point in the image.
Here’s more detail:
- Color Representation: In color images, a pixel’s color is typically represented by a combination of red, green, and blue (RGB) values, each ranging from 0 to 255, allowing for over 16 million possible colors. Some systems also use an additional alpha channel (RGBA) to represent pixel transparency.
- Location: Each pixel has a specific position within a grid, usually defined by a pair of coordinates (x, y).
- Resolution: The resolution of an image or screen is often described in terms of pixels, for example, 1920×1080 pixels. More pixels usually mean higher resolution and clearer, more detailed images.
- Pixel Density: This is usually measured in pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI), indicating the density of pixels in a given area, which affects the clarity and sharpness of the image or display.
- Pixel Size: The size of individual pixels affects the overall quality of the image. Smaller pixels usually result in a sharper image, while larger pixels might result in a blocky or blurry image, especially when viewed up close.
- Bit Depth: The bit depth of a pixel refers to the number of bits used to represent its color. Higher bit depth allows for more colors and more detailed color representation.
- Subpixels: In many displays, each pixel is actually composed of three subpixels—one red, one green, and one blue—that work together to create the full range of colors.
Pixels are fundamental to digital imaging and display technology, acting as the building blocks for conveying visual information.