Which file format is known for lossless data compression for graphics?

Study for the SQA Higher Computing Science Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

The file format recognized for lossless data compression for graphics is PNG (Portable Network Graphics). This format ensures that the image data can be compressed without any loss of quality, meaning the original image can be perfectly reconstructed from the compressed data. PNG supports a range of color depths including true color and transparency, making it versatile for various applications, particularly on the web.

While GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) also uses lossless compression, it is limited in its color palette to 256 colors, which can restrict its ability to accurately represent more complex images. JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), on the other hand, is known for lossy compression, meaning that some data is lost in the compression process, resulting in a decrease in image quality. TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) can be used for both lossy and lossless compression, but it is primarily utilized in professional environments and may not be as commonly recognized as a standard for lossless graphic storage as PNG is.

Thus, PNG stands out as the most suitable choice for lossless data compression in graphics among the available options.

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