What does sample rate refer to in sound?

Sample rate refers to the number of samples taken per second when capturing audio. It is a critical aspect of digital audio, as it determines how many times the audio signal is measured each second, which can affect the quality and fidelity of the recorded sound. A higher sample rate captures more detail in the audio signal, resulting in a more accurate representation of the original sound wave, while a lower sample rate may lead to loss of detail and a degradation in the sound quality.

For instance, common sample rates include 44.1 kHz (used in CDs) and 48 kHz (used in video), which indicates that 44,100 or 48,000 samples per second are taken, respectively. This concept is essential in both audio recording and playback, as it influences how well the sound can be reproduced and how accurately the nuances of the original sound are conveyed.

The other options do not accurately define what sample rate is. The total duration refers to the length of the audio clip, the range of frequencies pertains to the quality and characteristics of the sound, while the total amplitude relates to the loudness of the audio. These aspects contribute to sound but do not define sample rate itself.