Pixel: GCSE Computer Science Definition

What is a pixel?

In GCSE Computer Science, a pixel is a single dot of colour and is the smallest element of a bitmap image. Each pixel is stored as a binary code, which is unique to the colour in each pixel. Millions of pixels are collected together to form a bitmap image. 

Bitmap images are broken up into a grid, with each square in the grid being called a pixel. The more pixels used in the image, the better the image's quality. We call this the resolution of an image. Each pixel has its own set of binary numbers which are used to store the colour of the pixel, with many images now using 24 binary digits (bits) or 32 bits for each pixel. The more bits that are used for each pixel, the more colours the pixel can be. 24 bits means that a pixel can be any one of 2²⁴ possible colours. 

Pixel Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Explore pixels in more detail and master other key-related terms such as colour-depth & resolution. Challenge yourself with our expertly created topic questions and reinforce your learning with our interactive flashcards. 

GCSE Computer Science Revision Resources