A matrix is an array of numbers in rows and columns. The horizontal lines in matrices are called rows and the vertical lines are called columns. A matrix with m rows and n columns is called an m-by-n matrix (or m * n matrix) and m and n are called its dimensions.
The matrix used in MRI determines the scan resolution. See Acquisition Matrix.

The number of data points collected in one, two or all three directions. Normally used for the 2D in plane sampling. The display matrix may be different from the acquisition matrix, although the latter determines the resolution. Measurement time may be saved by not acquiring raw data lines corresponding to high resolution. Not measured rows are filled with zeroes prior to the image calculation. A square image is the result of an interpolation in phase encoding direction. See also Zero Filling.

The chosen matrix size effects scan time, resolution and SNR. Reduced measurement matrixes decrease the scan time and the resolution by increased SNR.

The total number of pixels in the selected matrix, which is described by the product of its phase and frequency axis.

A rotation matrix is a matrix corresponding to a rotation of a vector around a certain axis. Used for example to describe the spins of nuclei.

The total number of independent data samples in the frequency and phase directions (number of pixels in the frequency encoding - and phase encoding direction).