What does spatial resolution determine in a raster dataset?

Spatial resolution in a raster dataset refers to the size of the individual pixels that make up the raster grid. Each pixel represents a specific area on the ground, and the smaller the pixel size, the higher the spatial resolution. This higher resolution allows for more detail to be captured in the image, enabling the identification of finer features and variations in the landscape, such as individual trees or small bodies of water.

When spatial resolution increases, the dataset can represent complex geographic features more accurately. Conversely, lower spatial resolution can result in a loss of detail and the potential blending of features within larger pixels. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects that spatial resolution directly influences the level of detail that can be observed in the raster image, making it a crucial element in applications involving GIS and remote sensing.