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Question 1Computer Graphics and Design
Which file format stores images using lossless compression and supports transparency through an alpha channel?
- BMP
- JPEG
- GIF
- PNG Correct answer.
Explanation
PNG uses lossless compression, so pixel data is preserved exactly when the file is saved and reopened. It also carries a full alpha channel, allowing smooth partial transparency rather than a single transparent color. This combination makes PNG a standard choice for web graphics that need clean edges.
Question 2Computer Graphics and Design
In the RGB color model, what does each channel value represent?
- The intensity of one primary light color Correct answer.
- The amount of black ink added
- The hue angle on a color wheel
- The physical wavelength in nanometers
Explanation
RGB is an additive model built from red, green, and blue light, and each channel stores the intensity of one of those primaries. Combining the three intensities at full strength produces white. Channel values do not encode hue angles, ink amounts, or wavelengths directly.
Question 3Computer Graphics and Design
A designer needs a raster image with the fewest visible compression artifacts for a photograph displayed on a website. Which choice best fits?
- A high-quality JPEG at a moderate file size Correct answer.
- An uncompressed TIFF
- A one-color GIF
- A low-resolution index-color PNG
Explanation
Photographs contain smooth tonal gradients that JPEG handles well, and raising the quality setting reduces visible blocking artifacts while keeping files reasonably small. A high-quality JPEG therefore balances fidelity and download size for web photos. The other formats either lose photographic color depth or produce very large files.
Question 4Computer Graphics and Design
What does vector graphics describe an image with?
- Layers of compressed bitmaps
- A grid of colored pixels
- Mathematical paths and shapes Correct answer.
- A palette of indexed colors
Explanation
Vector graphics define shapes through mathematical descriptions such as points, lines, curves, and fill rules. Because the geometry is stored rather than a pixel grid, the artwork can be scaled to any size without pixelation. Raster formats instead record individual pixel values.
Question 5Computer Graphics and Design
A logo must remain crisp when printed on a billboard and also used as a small app icon. Which source format is most appropriate?
- A 300 dpi PNG
- A 72 dpi JPEG
- A GIF with a limited palette
- A vector SVG file Correct answer.
Explanation
An SVG stores shapes as scalable geometry, so the same file renders sharply at billboard size and at icon size. Resolution-dependent raster files must be regenerated for each output size. That makes the vector source the most flexible master asset.
Question 6Computer Graphics and Design
Which color model is subtractive and used for print production?
- RGB
- Lab
- CMYK Correct answer.
- HSV
Explanation
CMYK is subtractive because cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks absorb light reflected from paper. Each additional ink layer removes more reflected color, darkening the result. RGB is additive, while HSV and Lab are perceptual or cylindrical descriptions rather than ink models.
Question 7Computer Graphics and Design
What is the primary purpose of a color profile such as sRGB or Adobe RGB?
- To define how numeric color values map to actual colors on a device Correct answer.
- To convert vector paths into raster pixels
- To set the pixel dimensions of a canvas
- To compress image files without losing detail
Explanation
A color profile describes the color gamut and mapping of a device, so software can translate numeric values into consistent perceived colors. Without profiles, the same RGB numbers can look different on different screens and printers. Profiles do not affect file compression, canvas size, or rasterization.
Question 8Computer Graphics and Design
In a 24-bit RGB image, how many distinct colors can be represented per pixel?
- 16,777,216 Correct answer.
- 65,536
- 256
- 1,024
Explanation
A 24-bit image allocates 8 bits to each of the three RGB channels. Each channel offers 256 levels, and 256 cubed equals 16,777,216 possible combinations. This is commonly called true color.
Question 9Computer Graphics and Design
Which statement correctly describes the difference between 8-bit and 16-bit color depth per channel?
- 16-bit files cannot be edited in layers
- 8-bit supports a wider color gamut than 16-bit
- 16-bit allows more tonal levels and smoother gradients Correct answer.
- 8-bit stores only grayscale information
Explanation
Bit depth controls how many discrete levels each channel can record. A 16-bit channel provides far more levels than an 8-bit channel, which reduces banding and preserves smoother gradients during editing. Bit depth affects precision, not gamut size or layer capability.
Question 10Computer Graphics and Design
What does the resolution setting of 300 ppi refer to in print design?
- 300 dots of ink per square centimeter
- 300 colors per printed page
- 300 pixels per inch of printed output Correct answer.
- 300 vector anchor points per shape
Explanation
PPI means pixels per inch and describes how many image pixels are placed into each inch of printed output. At 300 ppi, a one-inch printed area receives 300 pixels along each axis. This is a common target for high-quality photographic printing.
Question 11Computer Graphics and Design
A photograph is 2400 by 3000 pixels. What is the largest print it can make at 300 ppi without resampling?
- 4 by 5 inches
- 8 by 10 inches Correct answer.
- 12 by 15 inches
- 2 by 2.5 inches
Explanation
Dividing each pixel dimension by 300 ppi gives the physical print size. 2400 divided by 300 equals 8 inches, and 3000 divided by 300 equals 10 inches. No resampling is needed because the pixel count is unchanged.
Question 12Computer Graphics and Design
Which pair correctly matches a graphic type with its typical use?
- Vector for a detailed photograph
- Raster for a scalable icon set
- Vector for scanned film grain
- Raster for a photograph with continuous tone Correct answer.
Explanation
Continuous-tone photographs contain subtle gradations best captured by a pixel grid, so raster formats suit them. Vector graphics excel at crisp geometric shapes and logos instead. Matching the format to the content type avoids unnecessary quality loss or file bloat.
Question 13Computer Graphics and Design
What is the purpose of an alpha channel in an image?
- To compress the image losslessly
- To define the color gamut of the monitor
- To record the physical print size
- To store transparency information for each pixel Correct answer.
Explanation
An alpha channel stores an opacity value per pixel, allowing an image to blend smoothly with whatever lies behind it. Values range from fully transparent to fully opaque. This is separate from color channels, print dimensions, or compression.
Question 14Computer Graphics and Design
Which layer blend mode multiplies the top layer's color values with the layer below, generally darkening the result?
- Overlay
- Multiply Correct answer.
- Screen
- Dodge
Explanation
Multiply blend mode multiplies corresponding color values, and because values are between zero and one, the product is generally darker than either input. It is commonly used to add shadows or tint an image. Screen does the opposite and lightens.
Question 15Computer Graphics and Design
A designer wants to darken shadows in a photo without affecting highlights. Which adjustment is most targeted?
- Apply a curves adjustment pulling down the shadow region Correct answer.
- Reduce overall saturation
- Increase global brightness
- Apply a Gaussian blur
Explanation
A curves adjustment lets the designer edit specific tonal ranges independently. Pulling down the curve in the shadow region darkens those values while leaving highlight points unchanged. Global brightness or saturation changes affect the whole image uniformly.
Question 16Computer Graphics and Design
In the HSL color model, what does the saturation component control?
- The lightness of the color
- The rotation of the hue angle
- The opacity of the pixel
- The purity or intensity of the hue Correct answer.
Explanation
Saturation describes how pure or grayish a hue appears. Low saturation moves a color toward neutral gray, while high saturation makes the hue vivid. Lightness and hue angle are separate components of the model.
Question 17Computer Graphics and Design
Which statement best explains why converting RGB artwork to CMYK can shift colors?
- CMYK cannot represent black
- CMYK uses more bits per channel than RGB
- CMYK images are always lower resolution
- CMYK has a smaller gamut, so some RGB colors cannot be reproduced Correct answer.
Explanation
The CMYK gamut covers fewer saturated colors than RGB, especially bright greens and oranges. When converting, those out-of-gamut colors are mapped to the nearest reproducible ink mixture, causing a visible shift. Bit depth and resolution are separate concerns.
Question 18Computer Graphics and Design
What is the main advantage of using layers in a design file?
- They permanently merge all edits into one image
- They convert raster art into vector art
- They automatically reduce file size
- They let elements be edited independently without affecting others Correct answer.
Explanation
Layers keep separate elements on independent planes so each can be moved, hidden, or restyled without altering the rest. This non-destructive workflow supports revision and experimentation. Layers do not merge content, shrink files, or vectorize artwork.
Question 19Computer Graphics and Design
Which element of design refers to the size relationship between parts of a composition?
- Proportion Correct answer.
- Contrast
- Rhythm
- Balance
Explanation
Proportion concerns the relative size of elements and how they compare to one another and to the whole. A well-proportioned layout feels harmonious rather than awkward. Balance, rhythm, and contrast describe other organizing principles.
Question 20Computer Graphics and Design
A poster places a large headline on the left and a small block of body text on the right. Which principle most directly explains the visual tension created?
- Asymmetrical balance Correct answer.
- Analogous color harmony
- Grid gutter spacing
- Repetition
Explanation
Asymmetrical balance uses unequal elements, such as a large mass on one side and a smaller mass on the other, to create equilibrium. The differing sizes create visual weight that the eye balances across the layout. Repetition and color harmony describe different effects.
Question 21Computer Graphics and Design
What is the primary function of a grid in layout design?
- To convert text into outlines
- To guarantee every page uses the same colors
- To align elements consistently and organize space Correct answer.
- To remove the need for typographic hierarchy
Explanation
A grid establishes columns, margins, and baselines that align elements consistently across a layout. This structure supports readability and coherent composition while still allowing creative variation. It does not dictate color choices or eliminate hierarchy.
Question 22Computer Graphics and Design
A designer sets body text at 10 pt with 12 pt leading. What does the 12 pt value describe?
- The stroke weight of the typeface
- The horizontal space between letters
- The distance from one baseline to the next Correct answer.
- The width of the text column
Explanation
Leading is the vertical distance between successive baselines of text. A 12 pt leading on 10 pt type gives a modest line spacing that affects readability. Column width, stroke weight, and letter spacing are separate typographic measures.
Question 23Computer Graphics and Design
Which typographic adjustment tightens or loosens the space between an entire block of text?
- Tracking Correct answer.
- Leading
- Kerning
- Hinting
Explanation
Tracking adjusts the uniform spacing across a range of characters, affecting the overall density of a text block. Kerning instead adjusts space between individual pairs. Leading controls vertical line spacing.
Question 24Computer Graphics and Design
Which file format is an open standard for vector graphics commonly used on the web?
- RAW
- SVG Correct answer.
- PSD
- MP4
Explanation
SVG is an XML-based open standard that describes vector shapes and can be rendered directly by browsers. Because it is text-based and resolution independent, it scales cleanly on any display. PSD, RAW, and MP4 serve different purposes.
Question 25Computer Graphics and Design
A designer exports a 4000-pixel-wide image at 50 percent scale and then enlarges it back to 4000 pixels. What is the most likely result?
- No change because resolution is metadata only
- Loss of fine detail from interpolation Correct answer.
- Identical detail because vector data is preserved
- Improved sharpness from downsampling
Explanation
Downsampling discards pixel information, and enlarging afterward must invent new pixels through interpolation. That process cannot restore the original fine detail, so the image appears softer. Resolution is not merely metadata once pixels are removed.
Question 26Computer Graphics and Design
Which color model describes colors by hue, saturation, and lightness and is often used in pickers because it maps naturally to how people describe color?
- Lab
- HSL Correct answer.
- Duotone
- CMYK
Explanation
HSL separates the color family (hue) from its intensity (saturation) and its brightness (lightness), which matches everyday language such as a light, muted blue. Because each attribute is an independent slider, HSL pickers make it easy to adjust a color's vividness without shifting its hue. CMYK is a print ink model and Lab is a device-independent perceptual space, so neither offers this intuitive triple.
Question 27Computer Graphics and Design
Which term describes the tiny individual picture elements that together form a raster image?
- Paths
- Nodes
- Pixels Correct answer.
- Vectors
Explanation
A raster image is a rectangular grid of pixels, and each pixel stores color values for one location. The total pixel count (width times height) determines how much detail the image can hold. Paths, nodes, and vectors belong to vector graphics, which are defined by mathematical geometry rather than a fixed grid.
Question 28Computer Graphics and Design
A designer needs a logo that stays crisp when scaled from a business card to a billboard. Which graphic type is the correct choice?
- Raster
- Halftone
- Bitmap
- Vector Correct answer.
Explanation
Vector artwork is defined by mathematical paths, so it can be scaled to any size without losing edge quality. Raster formats store a fixed pixel grid and show visible pixels or blur when enlarged far beyond their native size. For logos that must work at many sizes, vector is the standard choice.
Question 29Computer Graphics and Design
Which principle of design is created when elements are arranged around a central point so that both halves of a composition feel equally weighted?
- Proximity
- Radial hierarchy
- Asymmetrical balance
- Symmetrical balance Correct answer.
Explanation
Symmetrical balance occurs when visual weight is mirrored across an axis, so the composition feels stable and formal. Asymmetrical balance instead equalizes weight with different-sized or differently placed elements. Proximity is a grouping principle, and radial hierarchy is not a standard balance term in this sense.
Question 30Computer Graphics and Design
In typography, what does the term x-height refer to?
- The total space occupied by a line of text including leading
- The height of lowercase letters without ascenders or descenders Correct answer.
- The distance from baseline to the top of a capital letter
- The width of the widest character in a font
Explanation
X-height is measured from the baseline to the top of lowercase letters such as o, x, and e, which have no ascenders or descenders. It strongly affects perceived text size and readability, since fonts with a large x-height look bigger at the same point size. Cap height and leading are separate measurements.
Question 31Computer Graphics and Design
Which file format uses lossless compression and supports transparency, making it common for web graphics with flat colors?
- JPEG
- BMP
- PNG Correct answer.
- GIF
Explanation
PNG compresses images without discarding data, so repeated saving does not degrade quality, and it supports an alpha channel for smooth transparency. JPEG uses lossy compression and lacks transparency, while GIF limits colors to 256. BMP is typically uncompressed and large.
Question 32Computer Graphics and Design
What is the purpose of a style guide in a design project?
- To store the original layered source files for archival
- To convert artwork between color modes automatically
- To document consistent rules for type, color, and spacing across deliverables Correct answer.
- To measure the physical dimensions of a printed page
Explanation
A style guide records approved fonts, color values, spacing rules, and usage examples so that everyone producing materials applies the same visual system. It supports consistency across teams and media rather than storing files or performing conversions. Page measurement is a separate production concern.
Question 33Computer Graphics and Design
A designer wants to remove a subject from its background in a photo and place it over a new color. Which selection approach is most appropriate?
- Reduce the image resolution to 72 ppi
- Draw a path or mask tightly around the subject and refine the edge Correct answer.
- Apply a global brightness adjustment to the whole image
- Convert the image to grayscale and back to RGB
Explanation
Isolating a subject requires a selection or mask that follows its outline so the background can be replaced while the subject stays intact. Paths and masks let the designer refine soft or complex edges such as hair. Global adjustments, color mode changes, and resolution changes affect the entire image and cannot separate subject from background.
Question 34Computer Graphics and Design
Which adjustment should a designer use to correct a photograph that has a strong unwanted color cast from indoor lighting?
- White balance Correct answer.
- Unsharp mask
- Posterize
- Threshold
Explanation
A color cast means the neutral tones are shifted toward one hue, and white balance corrects this by redefining which values count as neutral. Setting a proper white point removes the tint and restores natural color. Unsharp mask sharpens edges, while threshold and posterize reduce tonal levels rather than correct color.
Question 35Computer Graphics and Design
A designer needs to repeat a small decorative motif evenly across a wide banner. Which technique produces the most efficient and consistent result?
- Rasterize the motif and stretch it to fit
- Copy and paste the motif many times by hand
- Define the motif as a pattern or symbol and tile it Correct answer.
- Convert the banner to a single flattened layer
Explanation
Patterns and symbols let one master artwork be repeated automatically, so edits to the master update every instance and spacing stays even. Manual pasting is slow and error-prone, and stretching a rasterized motif distorts it. Flattening removes the structure needed for repetition.
Question 36Computer Graphics and Design
In a vector illustration, what is the effect of adding more anchor points along a curve than the shape requires?
- The path becomes harder to edit and may show lumps or irregularities Correct answer.
- The curve becomes perfectly smooth regardless of handle placement
- The stroke weight doubles along the curve
- The file automatically converts to a raster image
Explanation
Each anchor point carries direction handles, so extra points multiply the adjustments needed and small handle errors create visible bumps. Clean vector work uses the fewest points that describe the shape. Adding points does not change file type or stroke weight, and it cannot guarantee smoothness by itself.
Question 37Computer Graphics and Design
A designer is preparing a two-color job where only black ink and one spot color will be printed. Which color mode best represents the artwork for the press?
- Spot color channels Correct answer.
- RGB
- Indexed color
- HSL
Explanation
Spot color channels let each ink, including the spot color, be defined and separated explicitly for the press. RGB and HSL are screen-oriented models that do not describe individual inks, and indexed color limits the palette to a fixed table without ink separation. For a true two-ink job, dedicated spot channels are the accurate representation.
Question 38Computer Graphics and Design
Which statement best describes how a clipping mask works in a layered design file?
- It permanently deletes all pixels outside the selected shape
- It converts vector shapes into editable text
- It merges every visible layer into one flattened image
- It reveals the layers above it only within the shape of the layer below Correct answer.
Explanation
A clipping mask uses the shape of a base layer as a window, so artwork on layers above is visible only inside that shape. The underlying pixels are not destroyed, which keeps the effect editable. It does not flatten layers or change object types.
Question 39Computer Graphics and Design
A logo must appear in a printed brochure and on a website. Why is it useful to keep a master vector version and export separate files for each use?
- Each medium needs different color, resolution, and format settings from one accurate source Correct answer.
- A single exported JPEG works equally well for both media
- Websites cannot display artwork made from vector paths
- Printing requires raster art and screens require vector art
Explanation
Print production typically needs CMYK or spot colors at high resolution, while screens need RGB and appropriately sized raster or SVG files. Keeping one master vector source preserves accuracy while exports are tailored per medium. Screens can display vector-based SVG, and a single JPEG is a poor fit for print quality and web transparency.
Question 40Computer Graphics and Design
Which statement correctly describes the difference between a serif and a sans serif typeface?
- Serif faces are always italic; sans serif faces are always upright
- Serif faces are used only on screen; sans serif faces are used only in print
- Serif faces have small strokes at letter ends; sans serif faces do not Correct answer.
- Serif faces contain only uppercase letters; sans serif faces contain only lowercase
Explanation
Serifs are the small finishing strokes at the ends of letterforms, and sans serif means literally without them. Both categories include italic and upright styles and full alphabets. Neither is restricted to a single medium, since both appear in print and on screen.
Question 41Computer Graphics and Design
A designer wants to make a small line of text feel more open and airy without changing the space between individual letters. Which setting should be adjusted?
- Tracking
- Warp
- Kerning
- Leading Correct answer.
Explanation
Leading is the vertical distance between baselines, so increasing it adds breathing room between lines while leaving horizontal letter spacing untouched. Tracking adjusts spacing across a range of characters, and kerning adjusts pairs. Warp distorts the shape of the text.
Question 42Computer Graphics and Design
Which statement best explains why designers use a limited color palette in a composition?
- Limited palettes guarantee that the file will print without errors
- Fewer colors always reduce the file's pixel count
- A few well-chosen colors create unity and direct attention more reliably than many competing hues Correct answer.
- A limited palette removes the need for contrast
Explanation
Restricting the palette reduces visual noise, so each color carries more meaning and the eye knows where to look. It also helps a composition feel cohesive across pages or screens. Palette size does not determine print success or pixel count, and contrast is still essential within a limited palette.
Question 43Computer Graphics and Design
What is the main role of contrast in a layout?
- To reduce the total number of typefaces to one
- To ensure all colors have identical brightness
- To make every element equally prominent
- To distinguish elements and guide the viewer's eye to what matters most Correct answer.
Explanation
Contrast creates visible differences in size, weight, color, or position, which signals hierarchy and tells the viewer where to look first. Without contrast, elements compete equally and the layout feels flat. Reducing typefaces or equalizing brightness works against contrast rather than defining it.
Question 44Computer Graphics and Design
A designer is building a mobile interface and wants text to remain legible when users change their device's display size. Which approach is best?
- Use the smallest available font to fit more content
- Set all text in fixed pixel sizes
- Use relative type sizes that scale with user settings Correct answer.
- Convert all labels to images of text
Explanation
Relative units such as em or rem scale with the user's preferred settings, preserving accessibility when display size changes. Fixed pixel sizes ignore those preferences, and text rendered as images cannot be resized or read by assistive technology. Shrinking type to fit content sacrifices legibility.
Question 45Computer Graphics and Design
Which statement correctly describes the difference between a layer mask and an eraser tool when hiding part of an image?
- A layer mask only works on text layers, while the eraser works on all layers
- A layer mask hides pixels non-destructively and can be edited later, while the eraser removes pixels permanently Correct answer.
- Both tools permanently delete pixels in the same way
- A layer mask permanently deletes pixels, while the eraser is fully reversible
Explanation
A layer mask stores hiding information separately, so painted areas can be revealed again by editing the mask. The eraser changes pixel data directly, so erased areas are gone unless undone immediately. Masks therefore support iterative, non-destructive editing on any layer type.
Question 46Computer Graphics and Design
A designer must deliver a print-ready PDF. Which setting is most important to verify before export?
- That all fonts are replaced with low-resolution bitmaps
- That every layer remains unflattened and editable
- That images are at sufficient resolution and colors are converted for the press Correct answer.
- That the file uses the smallest possible page size
Explanation
Print output depends on adequate image resolution and correct color conversion, such as CMYK or spot colors, so the press reproduces tones as intended. Editable layers are not required in a final PDF, and shrinking the page or replacing fonts with bitmaps would harm quality. Verifying resolution and color is the essential preflight step.
Question 47Computer Graphics and Design
A 1200 by 1800 pixel image is placed in a layout at 4 inches wide. What effective resolution does it have across that width?
- 72 ppi
- 150 ppi
- 300 ppi Correct answer.
- 600 ppi
Explanation
Effective resolution equals pixel width divided by placed width: 1200 divided by 4 equals 300 pixels per inch. This value tells you how densely the existing pixels are packed at the chosen print size. Changing the placed width would change the effective resolution without altering the file.
Question 48Computer Graphics and Design
A designer converts a detailed photograph to a 16-color palette and notices banding in a smooth sky gradient. Which explanation best accounts for the banding?
- The photograph was sharpened before conversion
- The image resolution increased during conversion
- The alpha channel was removed from the file
- Too few tones are available to render gradual transitions, so steps become visible Correct answer.
Explanation
Reducing to a small palette forces many neighboring tones to map to the same index color, so smooth gradients collapse into visible steps called banding. Dithering can soften this by mixing pixels, but it cannot restore missing tones. Resolution, alpha, and sharpening do not explain the stepped transitions.
Question 49Computer Graphics and Design
A brand specifies a spot color for a logo, but the logo will also appear on screen. Why must a separate screen-safe color be defined?
- RGB values automatically convert to the exact spot ink on press
- Spot colors cannot be saved in vector files
- Spot inks are physical pigments that screens approximate with RGB values, so a matched screen color is needed Correct answer.
- Screens display only grayscale images
Explanation
A spot color refers to a specific mixed ink, which a monitor can only simulate using RGB values. Defining an approved screen equivalent keeps the brand consistent where the actual ink is unavailable. Vector files can store spot colors, screens render color, and RGB-to-spot conversion is approximate rather than exact.
Question 50Computer Graphics and Design
A designer must choose between saving a working file as a layered native format or as a flattened TIFF. Which consideration most strongly favors the layered native file?
- It always produces a smaller file than a flattened TIFF
- Future edits to type, masks, and adjustments remain possible without rebuilding the artwork Correct answer.
- It removes the need for any export step later
- It guarantees the colors will match across all devices
Explanation
A layered native file preserves editable text, masks, and adjustment layers, so revisions can be made without reconstructing the composition. Flattened TIFFs merge everything into fixed pixels, which is efficient for delivery but inflexible for editing. Native files are often larger, do not guarantee cross-device color, and still require export.