What is the key difference between raster and vector images?

The key difference between raster and vector images lies in their underlying structure and how they handle resizing. Raster images are composed of a grid of pixels, meaning that when you resize them—particularly if you increase their dimensions—they can lose clarity and appear pixelated or blurry. This quality loss occurs because there is a finite number of pixels that make up the image; increasing the size merely stretches these pixels rather than adding new detail.

On the other hand, vector images are created using mathematical equations and geometric shapes, making them resolution-independent. This means they can be scaled to any size without losing quality or becoming pixelated. This characteristic makes vector graphics ideal for designs that require scalability, such as logos and illustrations, where maintaining sharpness at various sizes is crucial.

The other options about file size, editing difficulty, and specific use cases do not accurately represent the fundamental differences between raster and vector image types. Thus, understanding the pixel-based nature of raster images versus the scalable qualities of vector images is essential for anyone working in digital communication and design.