Bit Depth

Bit depth is the number of bits used to represent each sample or pixel in a digital signal or image. In audio, it determines the dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio, with common values being 16-bit (CD quality) or 24-bit (professional audio). In digital imaging, bit depth defines how many colors or gray levels can be represented per pixel, such as 8-bit (256 levels) or 16-bit (65,536 levels). Higher bit depths provide greater precision and quality but require more storage space and processing power.