Vector graphic

A digital image encoded as formulas that represent lines and curves. The alternative and older means of encoding images is bitmapping. Vector graphics use mathematical functions to create all shapes. File sizes are a lot smaller with vector graphics than with bitmap images because less information has to be stored. Vector graphics can be reduced and enlarged (zoomed in and out) with no loss of resolution.One of the main issues that concern web designers is the need to keep the file size of an image small which in turn impacts bandwidth. Most images on the web are bitmaps; typically JPEGs and GIFs. The bits and bytes generating bitmap images must be stored pixel by pixel. Macromedia Flash is the web standard for vector graphics and animation, because it is easy to use without scripting.Related link: Mike Doughty compares bitmap images to vector graphic images, and explains the difference. Also see wireframe.