Which relationship is true concerning f stop numbers and aperture size?

The relationship between f-stop numbers and aperture size is fundamental to understanding exposure in photography. A higher f-stop number represents a smaller aperture opening, which means less light is allowed into the camera. This can lead to increased depth of field, making more of the image in focus.

Conversely, a lower f-stop number signifies a larger aperture opening, allowing more light to enter the camera. This not only helps in situations with low light but also results in a shallower depth of field, creating a pleasing background blur.

The concept relies on the inverse relationship of f-stop values to aperture size. Therefore, choosing a higher f-stop (such as f/16) results in a smaller opening compared to a lower f-stop (such as f/2.8), which has a much larger aperture. This understanding is crucial for managing exposure and achieving creative results in photography, reinforcing the importance of the correct relationship between f-stop numbers and aperture size.