What does it mean when 24 bits are used to store the colors in an image?

Using 24 bits to store the colors in an image represents true color. This means that each pixel in the image can display a wide range of colors because the 24 bits are typically divided into three 8-bit channels: red, green, and blue (RGB). Each channel can represent 256 different intensity levels, ranging from 0 to 255. When these three channels are combined, it allows for over 16 million possible colors (specifically, 256 x 256 x 256), which can accurately represent a vast array of colors and nuances in an image.

This color depth is ideal for producing rich and vibrant images that can represent real-world colors closely, making it suitable for photographs and detailed graphics. The use of true color enhances the visual experience by ensuring that color gradients are smooth and transitions between colors are well-defined, providing a more realistic representation of the scene depicted in the image.