How is raster resolution determined?

Raster resolution is fundamentally determined by the size of the individual pixel. In a raster dataset, each pixel represents a specific area on the ground, and the resolution indicates how much detail can be captured within each pixel. A smaller pixel size corresponds to a higher resolution, meaning that each pixel can capture more detailed information about the landscape or feature being represented. Conversely, larger pixels can encompass more area but provide less detail, resulting in lower resolution.

This measurement is crucial because it directly impacts the quality and applicability of the raster data for various analyses. High-resolution rasters allow for better identification of features and changes in the landscape, making it essential for applications such as urban planning, environmental monitoring, and resource management. Thus, the correct understanding of raster resolution being linked to pixel size is foundational in the field of GIS.