Which element in a BMP file specifies the dimensions, compression type, and color format?

The correct answer is the information header, which is a crucial component of a BMP file that contains important specifications about the image. This section provides key details including the dimensions of the image (width and height), the compression type used, and the color format, such as whether the image is in true color or uses a palette.

The information header directly informs software and applications on how to properly interpret the data in the BMP file, influencing how the image is displayed. It provides metadata that is critical for rendering the image correctly, including resolution and pixel format.

In contrast, the header generally refers to a broader component that may contain some basics about the file but does not delve into specifics about the image dimensions or color format. The RGBQUAD array is specifically used for defining the colors in color palettes but does not provide information about the image’s dimensions or compression type. The image data refers to the actual pixel information, which follows the headers and descriptor sections, but lacks the structural information needed for proper interpretation.