Which type of animation utilizes painted frames?

Cel animation is the correct choice because it specifically involves the creation of images on transparent sheets known as cels, which are then painted and photographed frame by frame to produce the animation. This traditional technique dates back to the early days of animation and involves layering painted cels over backgrounds to create the illusion of movement. Each frame is meticulously crafted, resulting in a fluid motion when played in sequence.

In contrast, path animation focuses on moving objects along a predetermined path and does not necessarily use painted frames. 3D animation refers to the creation of animated images in a three-dimensional space using digital modeling, rendering, and lighting techniques, which do not involve painted images. Behavioural animation is concerned with simulating the movements and actions of characters based on programmed rules, rather than the painted frame approach characteristic of cel animation.