Scalable Vector Graphics

An XML-based vector image format for two-dimensional graphics that supports interactivity and animation. Unlike bitmap formats (JPEG, PNG, GIF) which store images as grids of pixels, SVG describes shapes, paths, and text mathematically, allowing images to scale without loss of quality. SVG is critical for web accessibility because its elements can be given semantic meaning through ARIA attributes, making diagrams explorable by screen readers. Individual components of an SVG image can be highlighted, magnified, and described independently, enabling interactive exploration by users with visual impairments. SVG is supported natively by all modern web browsers and can be styled with CSS and manipulated with JavaScript, making it the preferred format for accessible data visualizations, charts, and scientific diagrams on the web.