What does a .tfw file represent?

A .tfw file is known as a world file. It is specifically used in conjunction with raster image files, such as those in the TIFF format, to provide georeferencing information. This enables the image to be accurately positioned within a geographic information system (GIS).

The content of a .tfw file typically includes information such as the pixel size, the coordinates of the top-left corner of the image, and the rotation of the image in relation to map coordinates. Because this file acts as a guide for GIS software to interpret the spatial context of the raster image, it plays a crucial role in aligning the image with real-world locations.

In contrast, metadata files contain descriptive information about other data, which is not the role of a .tfw file. Image files, like .tif, hold the actual visual data, while a database entry pertains to structured data stored within a database, which does not relate directly to the georeferencing function of a .tfw file. Therefore, identifying a .tfw file as a world file is essential for understanding how geospatial data is accurately represented and utilized within GIS applications.