How is the total number of colours determined for an image?

Study for the OCR GCSE Computer Science Exam. Prepare with flashcards, multiple choice questions, and hints. Get exam-ready with practical questions and answers!

The total number of colours in an image is determined by the formula 2^n, where n represents the number of bits used to represent each pixel. This formula is based on the binary nature of computing, where each bit can have two states: on or off (1 or 0).

For example, if you have 1 bit per pixel, you can have 2^1 = 2 colours (usually black and white). If you have 8 bits per pixel, you can have 2^8 = 256 different colours. This exponential growth occurs because each additional bit doubles the number of possible colour combinations that can be represented.

The other options do not accurately represent how colours are calculated in images. The formula n^2 would suggest that the number of colours depends on the number of pixels, which is not the case. The formula n x m refers more to the area of an image rather than its colour depth, while n + m implies a linear relationship that doesn’t apply to how colours are represented in binary systems. Therefore, understanding the relationship between bits and colour representation is crucial for interpreting digital images correctly.

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