Radiometric resolution is defined as?

Radiometric resolution refers to the capability of a sensor to detect and differentiate small variations in the intensity of energy, such as light or heat, that it measures. This is crucial in remote sensing as it determines the level of detail and nuance that can be captured in images. High radiometric resolution means that the sensor can detect finer gradations in energy, resulting in images that can reflect subtle differences in surface characteristics, such as distinguishing between different types of vegetation or soil moisture levels.

For example, a sensor with high radiometric resolution might be able to differentiate between shades of green in a forest, which could represent different species or health levels of trees. Conversely, sensors with low radiometric resolution may struggle to capture these nuances, potentially leading to less useful or informative images.

The other options relate to different concepts within remote sensing. The size of objects detected (first option) pertains to spatial resolution, while the accuracy of color representation (second option) relates to color fidelity or spectral resolution. The duration of data collection (fourth option) is about temporal resolution, which is distinct from radiometric considerations. Therefore, option C accurately defines radiometric resolution as it focuses on the differentiation of energy levels.