What does the abbreviation .BMP stand for in digital image formats?

The abbreviation .BMP stands for Bitmap, which is a widely used digital image format. Bitmaps store pixel data in a grid format, where each pixel in the image is represented by bits that define its color. This format is known for its simplicity and ease of use, as it can represent images with high quality, though the file sizes tend to be larger compared to other compressed formats. BMP files are often used in various graphics applications because they retain a high level of detail, making them suitable for tasks where image quality is crucial.

The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of the .BMP format. For instance, "Binary Image" and "Bitmap Protocol" do not specifically describe the characteristics or structure of the BMP file format. "Base Multimedia Protocol," while it suggests a connection to multimedia data, does not pertain to the established naming conventions for image file formats. By understanding that .BMP stands for Bitmap, one can appreciate its role in representing images in a straightforward and uncompressed manner.