Final answer:
You reduce image size to decrease the file size, which can lead to a decrease in quality and resolution. This process allows the images to load faster on digital platforms due to their smaller size.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you reduce image (file) size, the intent is usually to decrease the file size for easier storage or faster transmission, which often leads to a decrease in image quality or resolution. In specific terms, the process typically involves adjusting resolution and compression settings. A higher resolution means more pixels, which leads to better detail and a larger file size, making it better for printing. On the other hand, a lower resolution with higher compression results in smaller file size with less detail and a potential for pixelated images, appropriate for computer screens but not ideal for printing.
Therefore, the correct choice is a) To decrease quality; increase loading time, as compressing an image and reducing resolution usually results in a decrease in quality and the images load faster due to their smaller size. Note that this does not directly increase loading time, but rather it is intended to decrease it, so the option seems to be mistakenly worded. Nonetheless, those are typically the reasons for adjusting image file sizes.