What is the difference between analog and digital signals?

The distinction between analog and digital signals lies fundamentally in how each type represents information. Analog signals are characterized by their continuous nature, meaning they can take on any value within a given range and can vary smoothly over time. This allows them to capture the nuances of sound waves or other physical phenomena well.

In contrast, digital signals represent information using discrete values, often in the form of binary code (0s and 1s). This discretization means that digital signals can represent data more robustly, making them less susceptible to noise and interference compared to their analog counterparts. The process of converting a continuous signal into discrete values is known as sampling, which facilitates storage, transmission, and processing in modern digital systems.

The other options present misunderstandings of the basic principles of signal representation. For instance, stating that analog signals are digital trivializes the distinct characteristics of each type. Similarly, the notion that analog signals possess inherently higher fidelity isn’t universally true, as fidelity can depend on various factors, including the system used. Lastly, claiming there is no difference between the two signals overlooks the core concepts that define each modality. Thus, the essence captured in the second choice highlights the fundamental difference accurately.