Analog vs Digital Signals

Analog encoding sends or stores information using quantities that

• can vary continuously.

• can only have specific values.

• are separated by consistent numbers.

• store waves’ crest and trough sizes in small steps.

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Which of the following is NOT an analog device?

• a light knob that can adjust brightness between fully on and off

• a mouse connected to your computer controlling your cursor

• an FM radio tower broadcasting music

• a runner’s watch that can time to thousandth-second intervals

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Which of the following is an advantage of digital over analog?

• Digital controls allow you more control over exact movement and direction.

• Digital calculations give you more accurate measurements.

• Digital controls move objects in predictable, exact increments.

• Digital devices generate stronger, more precise signals and waves.

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Why is the weak analog signal harder to hear?

• The weak signal’s sound and clarity decrease corresponding to its amplitude.

• Radios have trouble distinguishing between weak signals and random noise.

• Increased distance causes wavelengths and frequencies to change.

• Radios have trouble connecting with lower-energy waves.

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Analog signals can be converted to digital through a process called _____.

• conversion

• processing

• sampling

• translation

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Analog signals can be converted to digital through a process called _____.

• conversion

• processing

• sampling

• translation

Answer explanation

Analog signals are converted to digital signals through a process called sampling, which involves taking discrete measurements of the analog signal at regular intervals.

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Which type(s) of signal(s) can be transmitted as radio waves?

• Analog

• Digital

• Both

• Neither

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Binary digital signals differ from analog signals because

• their amplitude values stay the same no matter the distance.

• digital encoding smooths out radio waves from their original sound, improving sound quality.

• their radio waves can only have two amplitude values—large and small.

• All of the above

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