What is a megapixel defined as in terms of image resolution?

A megapixel is defined as one million pixels, which reflects how digital images are measured in terms of resolution. Pixels are the smallest units of a digital image, and the total pixel count determines the detail and clarity of the image. Thus, when a camera is said to have a certain number of megapixels, it refers to the total number of pixels that the camera can capture, which directly influences the quality of the photographs produced.

Choosing one million as the definition of a megapixel is essential because it holds true across various contexts in digital photography, whether for professional or amateur use. Understanding this term is crucial, especially when evaluating camera specifications or discussing image quality.