Explain this Nikon's image modes?

I need to get a basic understanding of the image modes… Please try to include as many details as possible.

There are some listed as:
16M* (4608X3456) (this one has a star next to it)
16M (4608X3456)
12M (4000X3000)
8M (3264X2448)
5M (2592X1944)
3M (2048X1536)
PC (1024X768)
VGA (640X480
16:9 12M (4608X2592)

I tried reading the manual and tutorials but it would be helpful if someone explained the differences. Much appreciated!

Added (1). Thanks Taylor.

Does anyone know why the STAR is present on the first one or what the 16:9 12M is?

The first six lines are the still resolutions. The resolution of the pix you take. The higher the resolution, the more details are saved in each pic.

16M = 16 million pixels (16 MP); if you multiply the two numbers after it, 4608 times 3456, you will get a number very close to 16, 000, 000.

That takes you down through 3M.

PC and VGA are video resolutions. The higher the resolution, the sharper the video image.

16:9 is an aspect ratio. The other aspect ratios (16M, 12M, etc.) are 3:2. 16:9 is the aspect ratio of the newer TV's and computer monitor (called wide).

Without the manual, and we would need the Nikon model to get one, I can't tell you what the STAR is for. Usually it refers to some other entry on the same or a near page. Look at the bottom of the page, it may be there. It may be the default for some mode.