difference between vector and bitmap images

Bitmap Graphics
Bitmap graphics are the most common graphic format in use on the web and, indeed, on the computer. With the exception of Flash. Bitmaps files are larger than vectors due to the fact that they are made up of tiny dots (pixels) each coloured diffrently to show detail on the image, below is an overlook of bitmap images.


Pixel/Raster/Bitmap Image

Resolution:
Screen - 72dpi - RGB
Print - 300dpi - CMYK

Pro's:
Detail
Lots Of Colour

Con's:
Can't Make Bigger (Starts Off Large)
Can't Convert Very Well

Versions:
.jpg - smaller file size
.png } *simple images
.gif } not many colours*
.bmp - photos
.tif
.psd - photoshop file


Vector Graphics
Rather than being composed of pixels, Vector graphics consist of points, lines, and curves which, when combined, can form complex objects . These objects can be filled with solid colors, gradients, and even patterns.
Vector graphics are mathematical creations. For this reason, the programs that are used to create them save instructions on how the image should be drawn, rather than how it looks. This is the key difference between the two types of graphics. Because the computer has a description of how the image should look, it can be redrawn at any size, in any position, without losing any quality. A vector graphic resized to 5 times its original dimensions is simply reproduced, exactly, at the new size. It can also be freely manipulated

however due to this vector images remain  looking realtively simple in design and look, below is an overlook of vector images.

Vector ImagesPro's:
Scalable
Editable

Con's:
Simple
Suitable App Needed

Usage:
Logo
Map

Version's:
.ai
.eps
.3ds
.suf
.svg

Apps:
Flash
Illustrator
Coral Draw

(Research information from wikipedia only.)