Which type of image format is created using mathematical equations instead of pixels?

The type of image format that is created using mathematical equations instead of pixels is the vector format. Vector images are composed of paths, defined by a start and end point, along with other points, curves, and angles. As a result, they can be scaled to any size without losing quality, making them ideal for graphics that require flexibility in resizing, such as logos, icons, and illustrations.

In contrast, raster formats, such as bitmap images and JPEGs, are made up of a fixed grid of pixels; each pixel contains color information, and as such, scaling these images up can result in a loss of clarity and sharpness. This difference in how images are constructed is what fundamentally sets vector graphics apart from raster graphics, leading to their distinct advantages in certain applications.