GIS Dictionary

Definitions for GIS terms related to operations such as analysis, GIS modeling and web-based GIS, cartography, and Esri software.

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pixel

See Also: cell

  1. [data models] The smallest unit of information in an image or raster map, usually square or rectangular. Pixel is often used synonymously with cell.
  2. [remote sensing] In remote sensing, the fundamental unit of data collection. A pixel is represented in a remotely sensed image as a cell in an array of data values.
  3. [graphics (computing)] The smallest element of a display device, such as a video monitor, that can be independently assigned attributes, such as color and intensity. Pixel is an abbreviation for picture element.