How does digital magnification differ from optical magnification?

Digital magnification enlarges an image using software, while optical magnification uses lenses to magnify the image physically.

Optical magnification is a traditional method of magnification that uses a series of lenses to bend light and create a magnified image. This is the method used in microscopes, telescopes, and cameras. The image is magnified as it passes through each lens, with the final magnified image being viewed directly by the eye or captured on film or a digital sensor. The quality of the image is largely dependent on the quality of the lenses used, and there is a physical limit to how much an image can be magnified before it becomes blurry or distorted.

On the other hand, digital magnification is a more modern method that uses software to enlarge an image. This is done by increasing the size of the pixels in the image, effectively 'stretching' the image to make it larger. This can be done on a computer or a digital device after the image has been captured. The advantage of digital magnification is that it can theoretically magnify an image infinitely. However, as the image is enlarged, the pixels become more visible and the image can appear 'blocky' or pixelated. This is known as 'pixelation'.

In summary, optical magnification uses physical lenses to enlarge an image, and the quality of the magnification is dependent on the quality of the lenses. Digital magnification, however, uses software to enlarge an image, and the quality of the magnification is dependent on the resolution of the original image. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best method to use often depends on the specific requirements of the task at hand.