Ebooks come in many different formats, but a fixed format ebook is one where the layout of the pages is fixed, meaning that it will look the same no matter what device or screen size it is being viewed on. This is in contrast to a reflowable ebook, where the text can flow to fit the screen or device it is being viewed on.
There are benefits and drawbacks to both fixed and reflowable ebooks. Fixed format ebooks are generally better for books with a lot of graphics or images, as the layout will stay consistent and not get squished or distorted on smaller screens. They can also be easier to format correctly from the start, as there is less flexibility in how the pages can be laid out. On the downside, fixed format ebooks can be more difficult to view on smaller screens, as the pages may not flow well, and they are often not as easy to navigate as reflowable ebooks.
Reflowable ebooks, on the other hand, are more flexible in how they can be displayed, and so can be more easily viewed on a variety of devices. They are also generally more easy to navigate, as you can simply scroll through the text, rather than turning pages. However, they can be more difficult to format correctly, as there is more flexibility in how the pages can be laid out, and they can sometimes look a bit squished or distorted on smaller screens.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual author or publisher to decide which format is best for their book. There are pros and cons to both fixed and reflowable ebooks, so it really depends on the specific book and what will work best for it.